This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful dish that shines at any gathering. It combines fresh, vibrant ingredients to create a healthy salad that is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side at parties. The creamy avocado, sweet strawberries, and tangy poppyseed dressing make every bite a flavorful experience. Whether it’s a picnic or a family meal, this salad will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is ideal for busy weekdays.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of spinach, strawberries, and avocado brings a refreshing taste to your plate.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a colorful side at your favorite gatherings.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports your wellness journey.
- Simple Dressing: The easy-to-make poppyseed dressing elevates the flavors without overwhelming them.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare this delightful salad.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or jar with lid
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk or jar with lid: This is essential for emulsifying the dressing perfectly, ensuring every drop is flavorful.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries and dicing avocado quick and safe.
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 apple vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined.
- Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled cheese, toasted almonds, and sliced red onion.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
- Gently toss all ingredients together until they are evenly coated with dressing.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor experience! Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad!
How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just looking for a fresh meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
As a Main Dish
- Enjoy this salad as a light main course, especially during warm months. The combination of spinach, avocado, and strawberries makes it satisfying yet refreshing.
As a Side Salad
- Pair this salad with grilled meats or seafood as a vibrant side. The poppyseed dressing complements the flavors of roasted chicken or fish beautifully.
In a Wrap
- Use the salad as a filling for wraps. Simply place the salad ingredients in a tortilla for a healthy on-the-go lunch option.
At a Potluck
- Bring this salad to potlucks or picnics where it can shine alongside other dishes. It’s easy to transport and doesn’t require reheating.
How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
To elevate your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, consider these simple tips that guarantee freshness and flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose the freshest spinach, strawberries, and avocados for the best taste and texture.
- Toast Almonds: Lightly toasting almonds enhances their flavor, adding an extra crunch to your salad.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing before serving; adjust the honey based on your preference for sweetness.
- Chill Before Serving: Chill the salad ingredients in advance. This enhances freshness and makes for an even more refreshing dish.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta if blue cheese isn’t your favorite. Each provides a unique flavor profile.
- Add Protein: For added nutrition, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it even more filling.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
This salad pairs well with various side dishes, making it versatile and suitable for any meal occasion. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken pieces marinated and grilled add protein that complements the salad nicely.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs provides additional texture while keeping things healthy.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offer a hearty side that balances with the freshness of the salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can be an indulgent addition, perfect for sopping up any remaining dressing from your plate.
- Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits adds variety and enhances the fresh flavor theme of your meal.
- Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses alongside crackers to provide different flavors that pair well with both the salad and each other.
- Hummus with Veggies: A bowl of hummus served with raw veggies gives guests an inviting appetizer option.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with grains, beans, or meat make for a deliciously satisfying option next to your salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Always choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
Over-dressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for flavor.
Neglecting to wash greens: Dirty spinach can detract from the enjoyment of your salad. Always wash and dry your spinach thoroughly before using it.
Not tasting before serving: Failing to taste your dressing can lead to bland flavors. Always sample and adjust seasoning before mixing the salad.
Skipping the toasting step: Toasted almonds add depth and crunch. Don’t skip this step; it’s quick and makes a big difference!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container: This keeps your salad fresh for up to 2 days.
- Keep dressing separate: For optimal freshness, store the dressing in a separate container until ready to serve.
Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Freezing is not recommended: The ingredients do not freeze well, as spinach and avocado will lose their texture.
Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes, but be cautious as reheating may affect freshness.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring gently between intervals. This method is not ideal, as it may wilt the spinach.
- Stovetop: This is not recommended for salads like this one, as it will alter the fresh taste and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing:
Can I make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
What variations can I try with this salad?
You can customize your salad by adding grilled chicken, nuts, or different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added flavor.
How long does Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad last in the fridge?
The salad will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container without dressing.
Is the poppyseed dressing easy to make?
Absolutely! It takes only a few minutes to whisk together all ingredients for a flavorful dressing that complements the salad perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors that make it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether by adding proteins or experimenting with different dressings. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy a healthy dish that everyone will love!
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Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, a refreshing dish that brings together fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with healthful ingredients, making it an excellent choice for lunch, dinner, or as a festive side at gatherings. The homemade poppyseed dressing adds a delightful touch without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a nutritious meal option, this salad will impress your guests and keep you feeling satisfied.
- Total Time: 43 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
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
- 1/3 cup avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/3 cup avocado oil (or olive oil), 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon poppy seeds, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and season with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled cheese, toasted almonds, and sliced red onion.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
- 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 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken or chickpeas. Substitute different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for varied flavor profiles. Chill ingredients beforehand for an even more refreshing experience.
