The scent of summer is in the air, and nothing captures that essence quite like a vibrant Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad! This delightful dish is a twist on the classic strawberry spinach salad, enhanced with crunchy toasted ramen that’ll have you diving in for seconds. Bursting with fresh strawberries, nutrient-rich spinach, and creamy goat cheese, this salad not only provides a satisfying texture contrast but also serves up a wholesome vegetarian option that’s perfect for picnics or light lunches. And the best part? Its quick prep time allows you to whip it up in no time—say goodbye to boring meals! Ready to discover how to bring this fresh and crunchy delight to your table? Let’s get started!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Fresh, Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ripe strawberries and crisp spinach ensures every bite bursts with summer’s essence.
Crunchy Delight: Toasted ramen adds an unexpected crunch, elevating this salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can enjoy this delicious dish at a moment’s notice.
Versatile Serving: Perfect as a light lunch or alongside grilled meats, this salad suits any occasion.
Nutritious Appeal: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it’s a guilt-free indulgence. Think how delightful it would be to pair this with a refreshing Macaroni Salad Summer!
Strawberry Crunch Salad Ingredients
• Get ready to create a beautiful, fresh dish!
For the Salad
- Baby Spinach – Provides a nutritious and tender base for the salad; mixed greens or kale are great substitutions.
- Fresh Strawberries – Adds sweetness and freshness; any ripe, seasonal berries will enhance the flavor.
- Ramen Noodles (2 packages) – Contributes a satisfying crunch after toasting; feel free to use crispy chow mein noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Sliced Almonds (½ cup) – Offers additional crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or pecans work well too.
- Goat Cheese (4 oz, crumbled) – Adds creaminess and tang; feta or blue cheese can be substituted for varied taste.
- Green Onions (¾ cup, green part only) – Provides a mild onion flavor; red onions can give a sharper taste if preferred.
For the Vinaigrette
- Honey (⅓ cup) – Sweetens the dressing naturally; maple syrup is a wonderful vegan alternative.
- Red Wine Vinegar (⅓ cup) – Provides acidity in the dressing; white wine vinegar can replace it for a lighter flavor.
- Olive Oil (⅓ cup) – Acts as the base for the vinaigrette; avocado oil can be used instead.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Adds depth to the vinaigrette; yellow mustard can serve as a substitute.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Enhances the overall flavor of the dressing; garlic powder offers a milder taste if desired.
- Salt (⅛ tsp) – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste preferences.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a mason jar, combine ⅓ cup honey, ⅓ cup red wine vinegar, ⅓ cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove minced garlic, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until all ingredients are well mixed. Place the vinaigrette in the refrigerator to chill and allow the flavors to meld together while you prepare the other components of your delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad.
Step 2: Toast Nuts and Ramen
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for toasting. Spread ½ cup sliced almonds on one side of a baking sheet and break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces on the other side. Toast everything in the oven for 5-9 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the almonds are golden brown and the ramen is crispy and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as the ramen can brown quickly!
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add 6 cups of baby spinach, 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries, and ¾ cup of chopped green onions. Carefully toss these ingredients together with clean hands or tongs, ensuring that the strawberries and spinach are mixed evenly. This vibrant step brings together the fresh flavors of the Strawberry Crunch Salad, making every bite delightful and visually enticing.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Dressing
Once your salad is assembled, gently fold in 4 ounces of crumbled goat cheese, which will add a creamy texture to the mix. Drizzle your chilled vinaigrette over the salad, about half of it to start, and toss everything gently to combine. Serve immediately to maintain the crispy texture of the toasted ramen and almonds, and savor the burst of flavors in your refreshing Strawberry Crunch Salad!
What to Serve with Crunchy Strawberry Spinach Salad?
Fresh, colorful meals deserve perfect companions that enhance the experience.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy and savory, it adds a protein boost while complementing the salad’s fresh flavors perfectly.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side dish contributes a hearty texture and whole grain goodness, balancing the salad’s lightness.
- Citrus-Infused Water: Refreshing and vibrant, a splash of lemon or lime in sparkling water brightens the meal and enhances the summer vibe.
- Herbed Focaccia: Soft and aromatic, it’s perfect for soaking up the vinaigrette, adding a delightful contrast to the crunch of the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: These skewers of mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes bring a creamy bite and freshness to your table, making them an excellent pairing.
- Chilled Gazpacho: A cool bowl of this tomato-based soup provides a refreshing and light complement, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich treat wraps up the meal beautifully, offering a touch of indulgence that feels special after a fresh salad.
Enjoy your flavorful journey!
Strawberry Crunch Salad Variations
Make this refreshing dish your own with a few simple twists!
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a delicious protein-packed meal. The heartiness elevates the salad into a fulfilling main course.
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Gluten-Free: Omit the ramen and replace it with toasted seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower, for a delightful crunch without gluten. This option keeps your salad satisfying while catering to dietary needs.
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Herbal Twist: Fresh herbs like mint or basil not only elevate the flavor but can transform this salad into an aromatic masterpiece. Just imagine the refreshing notes they add!
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Vegan Version: Swap out the goat cheese for a creamy vegan cheese or avocado slice for a rich, dairy-free alternative. It maintains the dreamy texture while keeping it wholesome.
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Nutty Variations: If you’re not a fan of almonds, feel free to use walnuts or pecans. Their unique flavors and textures will create a new spin on your salad.
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Berries Galore: Mix in other seasonal berries, like blueberries or raspberries, to spice up the fruity aspect of your salad. Each berry will bring its unique sweetness and pop!
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Dressing Variations: Try different vinegars like balsamic or apple cider vinegar in your vinaigrette for a new flavor profile. Each choice brings its own tangy flair, making the dressing a customizable experience.
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Heat it Up: For those who love a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for a hint of heat. This addition creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries!
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out options like Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies or Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for more delicious ideas!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Crunch Salad
Fridge: Store the salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This helps keep the spinach fresh and the ramen crunchy.
Dressing: Keep the vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before drizzling over your salad for that perfect zing!
Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption, ensuring your crunch stays intact until you’re ready to indulge in your delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad.
Reheating: Avoid reheating the salad; instead, prepare only what you’ll eat in one sitting to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Crunch Salad
- Perfect Toasting: Keep a close eye on the ramen and almonds while toasting; they can burn quickly, ruining the salad’s crunch.
- Dress at the Last Minute: Add the vinaigrette just before serving to ensure the crunchy ramen remains crispy and doesn’t get soggy.
- Customizing Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey in the vinaigrette to your taste; adding lemon juice can enhance the freshness without increasing sweetness.
- Versatile Flavors: Experiment with different cheeses besides goat cheese, like feta or blue cheese, for a unique twist on your Strawberry Crunch Salad.
- Prep Ahead: Store salad components separately to maintain freshness; combine them just before serving for the best texture and taste.
Make Ahead Options
This Strawberry Crunch Spinach Salad is an excellent choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze. You can prepare the vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator; just give it a good shake before drizzling. Additionally, toast the ramen noodles and almonds 24 hours ahead and keep them in an airtight container to retain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the fresh spinach, strawberries, and green onions, then gently toss in the prepped components along with the vinaigrette and goat cheese. This ensures your salad stays vibrant and fresh, delivering delightful flavors and textures with minimal effort!
Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! Select ripe strawberries that are vibrant red, firm, and free from dark spots. In season, you’ll find sweeter berries, but if they’re out of season, opt for the best quality available. You can cut them into halves or quarters depending on your preference.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Crunch Salad?
For best results, I recommend storing the salad components separately in airtight containers. This way, the spinach stays fresh and the toasted ramen remains crunchy. The salad can be kept for up to 2 days in the fridge, but premixed salads tend to get soggy quickly, so it’s best to wait until you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the salad?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing an assembled Strawberry Crunch Salad due to the texture changes in the ingredients, you can freeze individual components! For instance, you can freeze the vinaigrette in an ice cube tray for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before using. Keep in mind, freezing the spinach or strawberries will change their texture, making them mushy when thawed.
What can I do if my dressing is too sweet or too tangy?
No worries! If you find your vinaigrette a bit too sweet, try adding a splash more red wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance the flavors. Conversely, if it’s too tangy, a little more honey can do the trick! Just mix well and taste until it’s just right for you.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If you’re preparing this salad for someone with dietary restrictions, ensure to inquire about their allergies. For gluten-free options, swap the ramen with crispy chow mein noodles or toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. Always check that the vinegar and mustard used are gluten-free as well!
How do I keep the ramen crispy until serving?
The more the merrier when it comes to freshness! To maintain the crunch of the ramen, store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. Add it just before tossing the salad with the dressing to enjoy the delightful texture contrast with fresh greens and strawberries.
Delicious Strawberry Crunch Salad for Your Summer Picnics
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mason jar, combine ⅓ cup honey, ⅓ cup red wine vinegar, ⅓ cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove minced garlic, and ⅛ teaspoon salt. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well mixed. Chill in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread ½ cup sliced almonds on one side of a baking sheet and break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces on the other side. Toast for 5-9 minutes, stirring halfway through, until almonds are golden brown and ramen is crispy.
- In a large mixing bowl, add 6 cups of baby spinach, 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries, and ¾ cup of chopped green onions. Toss these ingredients together carefully to mix evenly.
- Gently fold in 4 ounces of crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle your chilled vinaigrette over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately.
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