Strawberry crunch salad with champagne vinaigrette is one of those dishes that feels like a little ray of sunshine on your plate. It's perfect for warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. The combination of sweet strawberries, crunchy nuts, and a zesty champagne vinaigrette creates a symphony of flavors that's both refreshing and delightful. I first whipped this up for a family picnic, and it was an instant hit! It's become my go-to for any gathering or simply when I crave something fresh and vibrant.

This salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect companion for BBQs and cookouts. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a hearty quinoa dish or a grilled portobello mushroom. It’s also a delightful starter for any meal, or you can enjoy it on its own for a light lunch.

Servings: 4

6 cups mixed greens (like spinach and arugula)
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup pecans, toasted
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, toasted almonds, pecans, red onion, and avocado.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, champagne vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

For a bit of extra crunch, you can add some homemade croutons or swap out the nuts for your favorite variety like walnuts or cashews. If you're not a fan of feta, goat cheese makes an excellent alternative. To make this salad even more filling, throw in some grilled chicken or shrimp on top. And if you're hosting a party, consider serving the vinaigrette on the side so guests can dress their salads to their liking.

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