Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and vibrant colors, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a healthy side dish for dinner, this salad will brighten your table. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds offers a unique taste and texture that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The mix of ingredients delivers a refreshing taste that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side, complementing various meals effortlessly.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make this salad ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for healthy lunches.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or cheeses to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items to prepare your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar with lid
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Use these to ensure the dressing emulsifies properly for even flavor distribution.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing fruits and vegetables quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertop while providing a stable surface for chopping.

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

How to Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients together vigorously in a small bowl (or shake in a covered jar) until emulsified.
2. Taste the dressing and season with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper as needed.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients: spinach, strawberries, avocado, blue cheese (or goat cheese), almonds, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
2. Serve immediately on plates or in bowls. Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can pair it with various dishes or serve it as a standalone meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy this salad on its own for a healthy and satisfying lunch option. The combination of spinach, strawberries, and avocado provides essential nutrients and keeps you full.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken for added protein. The juicy chicken complements the fruity flavors perfectly.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with any main course as a vibrant side dish. It works well with grilled fish or roasted vegetables, adding freshness to your meal.

At Family Gatherings

• This salad makes a great addition to potlucks or family gatherings. Its colorful presentation will impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To elevate your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and seasonal strawberries. Fresh produce enhances the flavor and texture of the salad.
• Customize the Cheese: While blue cheese adds a robust flavor, feel free to substitute it with goat cheese or feta for a different taste profile that suits your preference.
• Toast Almonds: Toasting sliced almonds brings out their natural oils, enhancing their flavor and crunchiness in the salad.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess according to your taste.
• Add Extra Veggies: Consider incorporating other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This refreshing salad pairs well with various side dishes, making it even more appealing. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Salmon: A light and flaky fish that complements the fruity flavors of the salad while adding healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty grain dish that offers protein and fiber, perfect for filling out your meal.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a hearty element that balances the freshness of the salad; toss them in olive oil and roast until tender.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or ground turkey provide a satisfying and healthy side option.
5. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup can be an excellent complement, especially in cooler weather; choose a broth-based variety for lighter fare.
6. Whole Grain Bread: Serve crusty whole grain bread on the side; it’s perfect for scooping up salad remnants while adding fiber to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is simple, but a few mistakes can hinder your results.

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Always use fresh spinach, strawberries, and avocados for the best flavor and texture. Check for bruises or soft spots before purchasing.
• Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to avoid overpowering the fresh ingredients.
• Not slicing ingredients evenly: Cutting fruits and vegetables into uneven sizes can affect the presentation and eating experience. Aim for uniform slices for better texture and appearance.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your dressing can lead to a bland salad. Taste your dressing first and adjust with salt and pepper accordingly.
• Assembling too early: If you prepare the salad ahead of time, it may wilt before serving. Assemble just before eating to keep everything crisp.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in spinach and avocado.
• Prepare only what you will eat fresh.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Not ideal for salads; best served cold.
• Microwave: Not recommended; will wilt the spinach.
• Stovetop: Avoid reheating; serve fresh for best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

Can I make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for blue cheese in this salad?

You can replace blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile without losing creaminess.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 1-2 days for best quality.

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

Yes! Simply omit any cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and ensure your dressing is made without honey.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, seeds, or other seasonal fruits. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!