Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

A vibrant, crunchy salad packed with sweet strawberries, crisp greens, toasted nuts, and crunchy toppings, all tossed in a light and tangy champagne vinaigrette. It’s refreshing, textural, and perfect as a side or light lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this salad combines juicy berries, mixed greens, and plenty of satisfying crunch—all brought together by a bright vinaigrette. The champagne dressing adds subtle elegance, while the mix of textures keeps each bite interesting. It’s one of my favorite go-to salads for entertaining or weekend meals.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix, spinach, arugula)

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

• ½ cup toasted slivered almonds or chopped pecans

• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

• ½ cup crushed crispy wonton strips or toasted pita strips

For the vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons champagne vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• ¼ cup extra‑virgin olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

directions

1. I whisk together champagne vinegar, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until it emulsifies into a silky vinaigrette.

2. I arrange mixed greens in a large salad bowl or platter.

3. I scatter sliced strawberries, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, and red onion over the greens.

4. I drizzle the champagne vinaigrette evenly on top.

5. I gently toss everything until well coated, then sprinkle crushed wonton or pita strips for crunch.

6. I serve immediately to preserve the crunchy textures.

Servings and timing

• Servings: serves 4–6 as a side or 2–3 as a main

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• I swap feta for crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese to vary the tang.

• I use sliced almonds, walnuts, or pistachios based on what I have.

• For extra sweetness, I add a handful of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds.

• I toss in fresh herbs like mint or basil for added brightness.

• I substitute crispy wonton strips with toasted pumpkin seeds or granola for different crunch.

storage/reheating

I prepare and toss this salad just before serving to maintain its crispness. If I need to prep ahead, I mix the vinaigrette and toast the nuts early, and store them separately. Then I assemble and toss right before eating.

FAQs

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes—I’ve used apple cider or white wine vinegar with great results. Champagne gives a delicate flavor, but alternatives work well too.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely—I make the vinaigrette and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. I shake it well before using.

How do I keep the wonton strips from getting soggy?

I add them just before serving. If stored with dressing, they’ll soften quickly, so I wait until the last moment.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes—I swap out the cheese for vegan cheese or omit it entirely, and use maple syrup or agave in the dressing.

Can I add protein to make it a meal?

I often top this salad with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn it into a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

I find this Strawberry Crunch Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette bright, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. It’s quick to assemble yet feels elegant and fun. I hope it brings fresh, crisp joy to your table as it does to mine!