This delicious Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a fresh and vibrant dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a light lunch, a side salad for dinner, or a colorful addition to your summer barbecue, this salad fits the bill. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds makes it not only delightful to eat but also visually appealing. Tossed in a simple poppyseed dressing, this salad bursts with flavor and nutrients.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Salad
- For the Dressing
- How to Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
- Step 3: Toss and Serve
- How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- As a Light Lunch
- At Gatherings and Picnics
- As a Dinner Side
- For Meal Prep
- How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I customize my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?
- How long does the poppyseed dressing last?
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
- What other dressings go well with this salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries and avocados adds a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or side salad; it’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports your wellness goals.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful salad, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Measuring cups
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Whisk: Essential for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all salad ingredients without spilling.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing vegetables and fruits.
Ingredients
This delicious Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad is quick and easy to make, full of great fresh flavors, and tossed with a simple poppyseed dressing.
For the Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
- 4 ounces crumbled blue cheese (or goat cheese or feta)
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- half a small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
How to Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Whisk all dressing ingredients together vigorously in a small bowl or shake them in a covered jar until emulsified.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled cheese, sliced almonds, and red onion.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness and enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
This refreshing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only delightful but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
As a Light Lunch
- Pair the salad with whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal. The bread adds fiber and complements the fresh flavors.
- Enjoy it alongside a bowl of soup, like tomato basil, for a comforting yet healthy lunch option.
At Gatherings and Picnics
- Serve this salad in individual cups for easy sharing at parties. It makes a beautiful presentation and is easy to grab.
- Pack it in mason jars for picnics, layering the dressing at the bottom to keep the greens fresh until serving time.
As a Dinner Side
- Complement grilled chicken or fish with this salad. The fruity notes add brightness to the savory main dish.
- Offer it as a side at barbecues, where its lightness balances heavier foods like burgers and ribs.
For Meal Prep
- Store the salad components separately in airtight containers. Combine them just before eating to maintain freshness.
- Use the poppyseed dressing as a marinade for proteins; it works wonderfully with chicken or shrimp.
How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
To elevate your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose ripe avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Fresh strawberries: Use sweet, seasonal strawberries for optimal flavor. They should be bright red without any bruises.
- Toast your almonds: A quick toast enhances the nuttiness of sliced almonds, adding depth to your salad.
- Customize cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feel free to substitute with goat cheese or feta for different flavor profiles.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your dressing and adjust the honey as needed. You may prefer it sweeter or tangier based on personal preference.
- Add protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to boost nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
When serving Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, pairing it with complementary side dishes enhances the meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Seasoned simply and grilled to perfection, this lean protein pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain adds heartiness while remaining light; consider adding herbs and lemon for extra flavor.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the tartness of strawberries in the salad.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy texture from toasted garlic bread makes every bite satisfying alongside your salad.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide an Italian flair that complements your dish nicely.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and packed with fresh veggies, these rolls offer crunch and can be dipped in peanut sauce for added taste.
- Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can provide additional sweetness and variety to your meal presentation.
- Cheese Board: Various cheeses paired with nuts and dried fruits make an elegant side that encourages mingling during casual dinners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, small errors can affect the overall taste and presentation. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old spinach or strawberries will spoil the freshness of your salad. Always opt for the freshest produce available.
- Overdressing the salad: Applying too much dressing can make the salad soggy and overpowering. Start with a little and add more if necessary.
- Not balancing flavors: Failing to include all components like nuts or cheese can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Ensure you incorporate all ingredients for a well-rounded taste.
- Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season with salt and pepper can make your salad taste flat. A pinch of salt enhances all flavors, so don’t skip this step.
- Chopping ingredients too small: Cutting your strawberries and avocado too finely may result in mushy bites. Aim for bite-sized pieces that are easy to enjoy without losing their texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
-
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
-
- Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
-
- Duration: Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in spinach and avocado.
-
- Containers: If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe bag but be aware of compromised quality.
Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes. This method is not ideal as salads are typically enjoyed cold.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in short intervals, stirring in between. This may wilt the spinach further.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, but again, this is not usually advisable for salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.
Can I customize my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?
Yes! You can add other fruits like blueberries or nuts such as walnuts for added crunch.
How long does the poppyseed dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but wait to combine them until serving for optimal freshness.
What other dressings go well with this salad?
Alternatives like balsamic vinaigrette or a citrus vinaigrette pair nicely with the flavors of your salad.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only quick and easy but also bursts with fresh flavors that delight every palate. It’s perfect as a light lunch or side dish at gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite toppings like nuts or different cheeses!
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Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of our Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, a vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. This salad features a delightful combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a simple yet flavorful poppyseed dressing. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or served at summer gatherings, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. With its quick preparation time of just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days. Customize it to your taste by adding your favorite toppings or ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a burst of freshness in every bite!
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 pint strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1 avocado (peeled, pitted, and diced)
- 4 ounces crumbled blue cheese (or goat cheese or feta)
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: avocado oil, red wine vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, avocado, cheese, almonds, and red onion.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
