Get ready to revolutionize your salad game with a mouthwatering creation that's about to become your new obsession! This Sugared Almond Salad isn't just another boring bowl of greens – it's a symphony of flavors that will transform your entire dining experience. Imagine crisp mixed greens, sweet sugared almonds, juicy strawberries, and creamy goat cheese, all drizzled with a tantalizing poppyseed vinaigrette that'll have you craving every single bite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup sugared almonds
- 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
- 1/4 cup poppyseed vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the sugared almonds. In a small skillet over medium heat, add 1/2 cup of sliced almonds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once the almonds are toasted, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with the toasted almonds. Stir until the almonds are evenly coated in sugar. Set aside to cool completely, allowing the sugar to harden and form a crunchy coating.
- While the almonds are cooling, prepare the salad base. In a large salad bowl, add 4 cups of mixed greens. You can use a combination of arugula, spinach, and romaine for a variety of textures and flavors.
- Next, wash and slice 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries. Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl with the mixed greens, distributing them evenly throughout the salad.
- Once the sugared almonds have cooled and hardened, sprinkle them over the salad mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Now, add 1/4 cup of crumbled goat cheese on top of the salad. The creamy texture of the goat cheese will complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the crunch of the sugared almonds.
- For the dressing, drizzle 1/4 cup of poppyseed vinaigrette over the salad. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
- Gently toss the salad with tongs to combine all the ingredients without bruising the greens. Make sure the dressing evenly coats the salad.
- Serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. Enjoy your delicious Sugared Almond Salad with Poppyseed Vinaigrette Dressing!
Tips
- Toast your almonds carefully – golden is delicious, burnt is disastrous! Keep them moving in the pan to ensure even browning.
- Let the sugared almonds cool completely to achieve that perfect crunchy coating that adds irresistible texture to your salad.
- Choose a mix of greens for maximum flavor complexity – arugula adds a peppery kick, spinach brings nutrition, and romaine provides a satisfying crunch.
- Add the dressing just before serving to keep your greens crisp and prevent wilting.
- For an extra gourmet touch, try making your own poppyseed vinaigrette from scratch – it'll elevate the entire dish!
- Serve immediately after tossing to enjoy the salad at its absolute freshest and most vibrant.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
