Strawberry Almond Salad with Caramelized Nuts & Zesty Dressing
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 652kcal
This is a very easy and affordable strawberry almond salad that is a crowd pleaser! We have been making this salad for years!
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Ingredients
Salad:
- 5 ounces of mixed greens
- 1 - 15 ounce can of mandarin oranges drained
- 1-2 pints of strawberries cleaned and sliced
Sugared almonds:
- 2/3 cup slivered almonds
- 1/3 cup sugar
Vinaigrette:
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar or pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon each or sea salt and crushed black pepper
Instructions
- Add sugar and slivered almonds to a non stick pan and cook over medium high heat stirring often. It will take about 10-12 minutes for the sugar to melt and caramelize. After the sugar is melted and the almonds start to brown, pour almond mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and spread to a thin layer. After cooled, break apart small pieces to top the salad.
- For the dressing add all ingredients to a jar or a cruet and mix thoroughly. You can also whisk the mixture in a bowl.
- Toss together greens, strawberries, oranges, almonds, and dressing.
Notes
- Can I make the caramelized almonds ahead of time? Yes, you can! The caramelized almonds can be made a day or two in advance. Once completely cooled and hardened, store them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to use.
- What types of greens work best for this salad? Crisp greens like romaine lettuce, spring mix, butter lettuce, or even a blend with some spinach work beautifully in this strawberry almond salad. Choose your favorite, ensuring it's fresh and well-dried.
- What's the difference between pure maple syrup and pancake syrup for the vinaigrette? Pure maple syrup is a natural product made from maple tree sap, offering a distinct flavor and a lower glycemic index. Pancake syrup is typically made from corn syrup with artificial flavors. Pure maple syrup is essential for the desired taste and texture of this vinaigrette, and pancake syrup will not work as a substitute.
- Can I use other nuts besides almonds in this salad? Absolutely! While slivered almonds are traditional, you can easily customize the salad by using other nuts like pistachios, cashews, or even pecans. Each will add a unique flavor dimension to the recipe.
- How long does the strawberry almond salad dressing last? The vinaigrette, without the fresh fruit, can be stored in an airtight container or cruet in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Shake or whisk well before serving to re-emulsify the ingredients.
Nutrition
Calories: 652kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 46g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 32g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 610mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 4590IU | Vitamin C: 110mg | Calcium: 118mg | Iron: 2mg