Description
A luscious and creamy Strawberry Crack Salad perfect for summer gatherings, combining fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped topping, cream cheese, marshmallows, and crunchy pecans for a refreshing and indulgent dessert or side dish.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (washed and dried)
Dairy & Toppings
- 8 ounces cream cheese (can use dairy-free alternatives)
- 8 ounces whipped topping (consider sugar-free versions)
Add-ins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (for chewy texture)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (can substitute with sunflower seeds)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice them into bite-sized pieces and set aside to keep them fresh and ready to fold into the salad.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Whipped Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and whipped topping together. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and evenly blended to form a creamy base.
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the creamy mixture, being careful not to crush the berries to maintain their texture.
- Add Mini Marshmallows: Incorporate the mini marshmallows into the mixture by folding them in gently to ensure even distribution while preserving their chewy texture.
- Incorporate Chopped Pecans: Add the chopped pecans and fold them carefully into the salad. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
- Chill the Salad: Transfer the completed mixture into a serving bowl. Cover it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Remove the salad from the refrigerator and stir gently before serving. Serve cold as a refreshing summer side or dessert.
Notes
- For a nut-free option, substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
- Using sugar-free whipped topping can reduce the overall sugar content.
- Allowing the salad to chill properly improves the texture and flavor melding.
- Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture; frozen berries may make the salad watery.
