I dare say this is one of the best salads you’ll ever eat! The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is a vibrant blend of flavors and textures, perfect for lunch, dinner, or any special occasion. With its rich colors and refreshing taste, this salad not only nourishes your body but also delights your senses. The homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing adds a unique twist that will have you making this dish repeatedly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberries, creamy avocado, and tangy orange dressing creates a taste explosion.
- Nutrient-Packed: This salad is loaded with vitamins and healthy fats, making it a nourishing choice.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this salad fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
- Versatile Dish: It works well as a main course or a side dish for gatherings and parties.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go lunch option throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Large bowl
- Jar with lid
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Essential for making the smooth and creamy Orange Poppy Seed dressing quickly.
- Large bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all salad ingredients without any mess.
- Jar with lid: Perfect for storing leftover dressing in the fridge while keeping it fresh.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
For the Salad
- 1 lb chicken (grilled)
- 9 oz baby spinach
- 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
- 1 cup crumbled feta
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Add olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt to a blender.
- Pulse until well emulsified.
- Pour into a jar and stir in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, toasted sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Pour prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss gently to evenly coat all components. Serve immediately for best flavor!
How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
This delightful salad is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
For a Light Lunch
- Serve in individual bowls for a quick and easy lunch option.
- Pair with whole grain bread or a light sandwich for a more filling meal.
As a Dinner Starter
- Present in small portions as an appetizer before the main course.
- Garnish with extra toasted almonds for added crunch.
For Meal Prep
- Divide into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
At a Potluck
- Bring the salad in a large bowl for sharing, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy this vibrant dish.
- Provide extra dressing on the side for guests who want more flavor.
How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
To ensure your salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh spinach and ripe avocados for the best texture and taste.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to add other nuts or seeds, like walnuts or sunflower seeds, to vary the crunch.
- Adjust sweetness: Modify the honey in the dressing according to your taste preference; you can reduce it if you prefer less sweetness.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad briefly before serving; this enhances the flavors and keeps it refreshing.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal further. Here are some fantastic options that complement your salad perfectly.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Simple to prepare, these skewers add extra protein and flavor that matches well with this salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light, fluffy quinoa dish that adds heartiness without overpowering the salad’s fresh flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a delicious contrast to the softness of the salad ingredients.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add more nutrients and make for a vibrant plate alongside your salad.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can enhance your meal; consider pairing creamy cheeses that complement the poppy seed dressing.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix can balance out savory elements, providing a sweet touch after each bite of salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing to the next level.
- Skipping the dressing prep: Not making the Orange Poppy Seed dressing ahead can lead to a less flavorful salad. Prepare it in advance for better taste.
- Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
- Using unripe avocados: Choosing avocados that are not ripe will lead to a hard texture. Ensure they yield slightly to pressure for optimal taste.
- Neglecting toasted almonds: Using raw almonds instead of toasted ones misses out on added flavor and crunch. Toast them lightly before adding for best results.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted spinach or old cranberries can affect the overall quality. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for a vibrant salad.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store your salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep ingredients fresh and prevent moisture loss.
- Separate dressing: Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.
Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Not recommended: Freezing this salad is not ideal as ingredients like avocado and spinach do not freeze well. They lose their texture and flavor upon thawing.
Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken in a baking dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes, ensuring it stays moist.
- Microwave: Heat chicken pieces on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: In a skillet, heat chicken over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring gently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing unique?
This salad combines sweet cranberries, creamy avocado, and grilled chicken, all brought together by a zesty Orange Poppy Seed dressing that enhances every bite.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this salad?
Yes! Feel free to swap grilled chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also change nuts or cheese based on personal preference.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add cooked quinoa or farro for extra protein and fiber. These grains blend well with the existing ingredients while boosting nutritional value.
Is the Orange Poppy Seed dressing suitable for other salads?
Absolutely! This dressing pairs well with various salads, such as garden salads or fruit salads, offering versatile use beyond just this recipe.
Final Thoughts
The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is an explosion of flavors that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences while enjoying its delightful taste. Give it a try today!
SEO Information
Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Discover a delightful explosion of flavors with the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing. This vibrant salad features a perfect blend of nutrient-rich ingredients, including juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and sweet cranberries, all enhanced by the zesty homemade dressing. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this dish is not only nourishing but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion. With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a quick, healthy meal that keeps well for meal prep throughout the week.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken (grilled)
- 9 oz baby spinach
- 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
- 1 cup crumbled feta
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- To make the dressing, combine olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt in a blender. Pulse until emulsified. Stir in poppy seeds and refrigerate.
- In a large bowl, mix together grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added crunch or variety in flavor, consider adding walnuts or sunflower seeds. Adjust sweetness in the dressing to your preference by modifying the amount of honey. Store leftover dressing separately to maintain freshness.
