If you are on the hunt for a vibrant dish that bursts with fresh flavors and a delightful crunch, the Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This refreshing salad combines juicy, ripe strawberries with crunchy granola and pecans, all elevated by a lightly sweet and tangy whipped cream dressing. Perfect for brightening up any meal or serving as a charming dessert, this recipe offers a fantastic balance of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is easy and essential for this salad’s success. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect harmony of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess that defines the Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe.
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced: The star of the salad, providing juiciness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup granola: Adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of wholesome grain flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Brings a rich, nutty depth to the mix and a lovely texture contrast.
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut: Offers a subtle tropical sweetness that complements the strawberries beautifully.
- 1/2 cup whipped cream: Acts as a luscious base for the dressing, lightening the salad with creamy softness.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Natural sweetness that perfectly balances the tartness of the lemon and strawberries.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a bright, citrusy zing that lifts all flavors harmoniously.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the sliced strawberries into a large bowl, then add the granola, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. This mix is the foundation of your salad’s amazing texture, where juicy fruit meets satisfying crunch and a touch of tropical flair.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whipped cream, honey, and lemon juice until everything is light and well combined. This whipped dressing brings a creamy sweetness balanced by citrus brightness, which is crucial for tying all the flavors together perfectly.
Step 3: Toss Gently to Combine
Pour the dressing over the strawberry mixture and carefully toss everything together. The key here is to mix gently so the strawberries stay intact and the granola retains its delightful crunch, creating that signature texture contrast of this Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
For the best experience, serve the salad right away. This ensures every bite is fresh, with the granola still crisp and the fruit bursting with flavor, making it an irresistible treat for your taste buds.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your salad presentation by adding a few whole strawberries on top or a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light summer lunch or dinner. It also serves beautifully alongside a cheese platter or as a bright palate cleanser in a multi-course meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the salad ingredients in clear glass jars or parfait glasses. This not only looks stunning but allows the beautiful red strawberries and crunchy layers to shine through, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep in mind that the granola will lose its crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh whenever possible.
Freezing
Because the salad features fresh strawberries and whipped cream, freezing is not recommended. Freezing will compromise the texture of the fruit and cause the cream to separate, diminishing the delicious quality of this salad.
Reheating
This recipe is designed to be served chilled and fresh, so reheating is unnecessary and not advised. The best way to enjoy the full experience is to prepare and serve it immediately after tossing.
FAQs
Can I substitute the granola with something else?
Absolutely! You can replace granola with crushed graham crackers or even toasted oats for a different kind of crunch, but granola provides a unique texture and wholesome flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this salad vegan-friendly, swap the whipped cream for a plant-based whipped topping and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. These adjustments keep the salad delicious while aligning with a vegan lifestyle.
How do I keep the granola crunchy longer?
The best way is to add the granola just before serving rather than mixing it in early. This prevents it from absorbing moisture and losing its crispness, preserving the delightful crunch that defines the salad.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries tend to be mushy when thawed, which can make the salad watery and less appealing.
What occasions are perfect for serving this Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe?
This salad shines at summer barbecues, brunches, potlucks, or as a light dessert for family dinners. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors suit any casual or festive gathering.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe that makes it a standout dish in any kitchen. Its effortless combination of fresh fruit, crunchy nuts and granola, and a luscious dressing creates a crowd-pleaser every time. I encourage you to try it soon—once you take that first bite, it just might become one of your favorite go-to recipes for quick, refreshing indulgence.
Print
Strawberry Crunch Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Crunch Salad is a refreshing and delightful dessert or snack featuring fresh strawberries combined with crunchy granola, pecans, and shredded coconut, all tossed in a sweet and tangy whipped cream dressing with honey and lemon juice. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick treat that offers a balance of fruity freshness and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup granola
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced fresh strawberries, granola, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. Gently mix them to ensure even distribution of the crunchy elements with the fruit.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whipped cream, honey, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a sweet and slightly tangy dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the whipped cream dressing over the strawberry and granola mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly with the dressing without crushing the strawberries.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad right away to maintain the granola and pecans’ crunch for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds.
- Serve immediately after tossing to keep the granola crunchy.
- Chill the whipped cream beforehand for a cooler and thicker dressing.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
