Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Strawberry Crack Salad! It’s one of those dishes that’s just bursting with freshness and flavor. The sweet, juicy strawberries paired with fluffy marshmallows create this delightful combination that’s both crunchy and creamy. Seriously, every bite feels like a little party in your mouth! Perfect for summer barbecues or just as a light, refreshing treat, this salad is super easy to whip up and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I’m always excited to share it with friends and family!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this fabulous Strawberry Crack Salad! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. Wash and slice them just before using to keep them fresh.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: These add a fun, fluffy texture that balances the strawberries perfectly.
- 1 cup whipped topping: I love using the ready-made kind for its lightness, but you can whip your own if you prefer!
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: These give a nice crunch, so chop them roughly for some bite-sized pieces.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: This is what brings it all together with a creamy sweetness. You might want to sneak a taste before mixing!
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a delicious salad that everyone will adore!
How to Prepare Strawberry Crack Salad
Making this Strawberry Crack Salad is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish ready in no time.
Step 1: Combine Strawberries and Marshmallows
First, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in those beautiful, sliced strawberries along with the mini marshmallows. Gently stir them together using a spatula or a wooden spoon, making sure the strawberries are well-coated in the fluffy marshmallows. This step is all about getting those flavors to mingle!
Step 2: Add Whipped Topping
Next up, it’s time to fold in the whipped topping. Now, be gentle here! You want to preserve that light, airy texture. Use a spatula to carefully mix it in, making sure every strawberry and marshmallow gets a nice blanket of whipped cream. Trust me, this is where it starts to get really delicious!
Step 3: Stir in Pecans and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Now, it’s time to add the chopped pecans and sweetened condensed milk. Pour the milk in slowly, then fold it into the mixture. The nuts add a satisfying crunch, so make sure you’re mixing evenly to distribute everything just right. You want every spoonful to be a perfect balance of flavors and textures!
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Finally, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Chilling helps the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the salad even more refreshing! If you’re in a pinch, a quick 30-minute chill can work, but I highly recommend the full hour for the best taste. You can also make it a day ahead—just remember to give it a good stir before serving!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for busy days!
- Refreshing taste that’s perfect for warm weather.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Great for parties and potlucks – a guaranteed hit!
- Flexible – customize it with your favorite nuts or fruits!
Tips for Success
To make your Strawberry Crack Salad truly unforgettable, here are a few pro tips! First, always use fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and flavor. If they’re a little on the soft side, don’t worry—just give them a gentle wash and slice right before mixing to keep them fresh. When folding in the whipped topping, be gentle to maintain that airy texture! If you want to amp up the flavor, a splash of vanilla extract in the sweetened condensed milk can add a lovely depth. And remember, letting it chill for a full hour makes a world of difference in taste!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of this delightful Strawberry Crack Salad: around 200 calories, 15g of sugar, and 10g of fat. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this refreshing treat without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While you can use frozen strawberries, I highly recommend fresh for the best flavor and texture! Frozen strawberries tend to release more liquid as they thaw, which can make your Strawberry Crack Salad a bit soggy. If frozen is your only option, just be sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing them in!
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers of your Strawberry Crack Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep in mind that the strawberries may soften a bit over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I make this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making a day ahead. Just prepare it as usual and let it chill in the fridge overnight. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving to reincorporate any ingredients that may have settled. You’ll love the flavors after they’ve melded together!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Strawberry Crack Salad is super easy! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days, but I recommend enjoying it as soon as possible for the best taste. If you notice the strawberries getting a little soft, don’t worry; it’s still delicious! As for reheating, there’s no need—this salad is served cold and loses its charm if warmed up. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and you’re all set for a refreshing treat anytime!
For more delicious recipes, check out this Strawberry Cheesecake recipe or this refreshing Strawberry Banana Smoothie.
Print
Strawberry Crack Salad: 4 Irresistibly Sweet Secrets
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing salad with strawberries and a crunchy texture.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries and marshmallows.
- Add whipped topping and mix gently.
- Stir in chopped pecans and sweetened condensed milk.
- Toss until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Strawberry Crack Salad