Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. With its delightful blend of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a light lunch, or want a healthy side for dinner, this salad will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious salad ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of strawberries pairs perfectly with creamy avocado and crunchy almonds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side; it’s suitable for various occasions from picnics to dinner parties.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Whisking the dressing helps emulsify the ingredients; a jar makes it easy to shake and combine them quickly.

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: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the avocado oil, red apple vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. If using a jar, shake vigorously until emulsified.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. Combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled cheese (if using), toasted almonds, and sliced red onion in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

1. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated in dressing.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

1. Transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls.
2. Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This delightful Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it at a gathering, these suggestions will elevate the presentation and flavor.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a refreshing meal. The combination of spinach, strawberries, and avocado makes it nutritious and satisfying.

With Grilled Chicken

• Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken for added protein. The warm chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of the salad.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve the salad over a bed of quinoa for a heartier dish. This adds texture and boosts the nutritional value even more.

At a Potluck or BBQ

• Bring this salad to potlucks or barbecues as a stunning side dish. Its vibrant colors will attract attention, making it a hit among guests.

With Whole Grain Bread

• Pair the salad with slices of whole grain bread or rolls. This combination makes for a well-rounded meal that is both filling and healthy.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To achieve the best version of your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your salad is always fresh and flavorful.

• Use ripe avocados: Ripe avocados add creaminess and flavor. Choose ones that yield slightly when gently squeezed.
• Opt for seasonal strawberries: Fresh, in-season strawberries will provide the sweetest flavor and best texture for your salad.
• Toast almonds lightly: Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry pan will do.
• Make dressing ahead: Prepare the poppyseed dressing in advance to allow flavors to meld. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
• Add protein options: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, making it more filling.
• Keep spinach fresh: Wash and dry spinach just before serving to maintain its crispness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing pairs well with various side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add smokiness that enhances your meal.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing, creating a delicious balance.
3. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds another layer of freshness alongside the main salad.
4. Hummus Platter: Include an assortment of veggies and whole grain pita chips for dipping; this adds texture while keeping things healthy.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, and spices make for a hearty yet healthy side dish option.
6. Chickpea Fritters: Crispy chickpea fritters add crunch and protein while pairing well with the flavors of the spinach salad.
7. Caprese Skewers: Alternate mozzarella balls (or dairy-free alternatives) and cherry tomatoes on skewers for an easy-to-eat side.
8. Vegetable Soup: A light vegetable soup warms up any meal while providing additional nutrients without overshadowing your salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not washing the spinach: Always rinse your spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides. This ensures a fresh taste and safe consumption.
• Using unripe avocados: Choose ripe avocados for better flavor and creaminess. A ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
• Skipping the dressing seasoning: Don’t forget to season your poppyseed dressing! A pinch of salt and a twist of pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Overdressing the salad: Use just enough dressing to coat the ingredients without drowning them. This helps maintain the freshness of each component.
• Chopping strawberries too large: Slice strawberries into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in your salad. This ensures every bite has a mix of flavors.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Use fresh, cool ingredients straight from the fridge for a refreshing salad experience. Warm ingredients can wilt the spinach.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of fresh ingredients like spinach and avocado.
• If you must freeze components, consider freezing only the poppyseed dressing separately.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently, ensuring not to cook the salad.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals at low power, just enough to take off the chill; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat while stirring occasionally; do not fully cook or wilt greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing healthy?

This salad is packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C from spinach and strawberries, healthy fats from avocado, and antioxidants from almonds, making it a wholesome choice.

Can I substitute other greens in this salad?

Yes! You can use mixed greens or kale instead of spinach if you prefer a different taste or texture in your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

How do I customize my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, fruits such as blueberries or mandarin oranges, or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is best eaten within 2 days if stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it can easily be served as a side dish or a light main course. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion!