Name: Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Mayonnaise; 1/3 cup Sugar; 2 tbsp Lemon Juice; 2 tsp Poppy Seeds; 10 oz Baby Spinach Leaves; 2 large California Avocados; 2 cups Strawberries; 1 cup Pistachio Nuts; 1/2 cup Goat Cheese

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There’s something truly refreshing about a vibrant Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad. I remember the first time I made it for a summer picnic; the colors were so bright, and the flavors truly brightened the day. Imagine sitting outside on a sunny afternoon, surrounded by friends, with this beautiful salad serving as a centerpiece. The creamy avocado combined with the sweet strawberries and crisp spinach creates an explosion of taste that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it the perfect choice for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. I love how easy it is to whip up, and how it can be tailored to fit any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family get-together or a fancy dinner party, this salad makes an appearance in my kitchen often.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk

The Appeal of This Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

Bright and Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of fresh ingredients like spinach, avocado, and strawberries makes this salad not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. The vibrant greens and pinks are sure to catch anyone’s attention.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best parts about this salad is how quick it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can serve a dish that feels gourmet. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you need something light and refreshing.

Versatile and Adaptable

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap in different fruits or nuts based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Want to make it vegan? Leave out the cheese! Looking for extra crunch? Add some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds!

Perfect for Any Season

While the Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad is particularly delightful in spring and summer when strawberries are in season, it can be enjoyed year-round. It’s the kind of dish that lifts your spirits no matter what the weather is like outside.

Health Benefits

Each ingredient in this salad brings its own health benefits. Spinach is loaded with iron and vitamins, while avocado provides healthy fats that are great for your heart. The strawberries add a natural sweetness and are packed with antioxidants. It’s a nourishing option that you can feel good about serving.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for something to prepare ahead of time, this salad is ideal. You can make the dressing and assemble the salad in advance, then just toss it together right before serving. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Everything You Need for Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

The ingredients for the Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad are not only simple but wholesome. Each one complements the others, bringing together a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make every bite memorable.

3/4 cup mayo: This creamy base for the dressing adds richness. Opt for a lighter version if you prefer.
1/3 cup sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon juice.
2 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for that zesty kick and to prevent the avocado from browning.
2 tsp poppy seeds: These tiny seeds add a crunchy texture and a hint of nutty flavor.
10 oz baby spinach leaves: The star of the salad; fresh and tender, they create a nutrient-rich base.
2 large California avocados: Creamy and smooth, they provide healthy fats and a satisfying texture.
2 cups strawberries: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
1 cup pistachio nuts: These add a delightful crunch and a slightly salty note.
1/2 cup goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, it enhances the overall flavor profile but can be substituted with feta if preferred.

The Method for Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

Making this Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad is a breeze. Follow along with these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress!

Start by preparing the dressing. In a bowl, combine the mayo, sugar, lemon juice, and poppy seeds. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This dressing is key; it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Once your dressing is ready, pour it into a sealable container and store it in the fridge. It can keep for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep.
Next, take your baby spinach leaves and place them in a large salad bowl. The fresh greens will serve as the base of your salad.
Slice your avocados into half-moons. Use a spoon to scoop them out and place them on top of the greens. Their creamy texture is a delight against the fresh spinach.
Now, grab your strawberries. Wash and slice them before adding them to the bowl. The vibrant red color will make the salad pop.
Next, sprinkle the pistachio nuts over the salad. They add not only a crunch but also a lovely green hue that complements the spinach.
Finally, crumble the goat cheese on top. If you prefer feta, feel free to swap it in. It adds a savory element that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
Toss everything together gently. You want to coat the ingredients with the dressing without mashing the avocado and goat cheese.
When serving, drizzle with more dressing as desired. Each bite should be a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Enjoy this salad fresh, making it a perfect side for a main dish or a light lunch on its own!

Things Worth Knowing

Always choose ripe avocados for the best texture. They should yield slightly to pressure when gently squeezed.
For the freshest flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled.
To prevent avocados from browning, only slice them just before serving.
Feel free to experiment with different nuts for a unique twist!

Tips and Tricks about Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

Here are some helpful tips to elevate your Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad experience:

Storage: To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing this salad as the ingredients may lose their freshness and texture.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Variations: Try different fruits like blueberries or mango for a fun twist. You can also add chickpeas for extra protein.
Presentation: Serve the salad in a chilled bowl for a refreshing touch on warm days.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing in advance and keep it in the fridge for quick assembly later.

Side Dish Ideas for Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

When it comes to serving the Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to consider:

Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast drizzled with lemon will elevate the dish and make it a satisfying meal.
Quinoa: Serve alongside a light quinoa pilaf for added texture and protein.
Crusty Bread: Fresh, crusty bread or a baguette can be a perfect side to soak up any leftover dressing.
Roasted Veggies: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a well-rounded meal.
Soup: A light soup, such as tomato or a veggie bisque, complements the salad beautifully and makes for a cozy lunch.
Fruit Platter: End the meal with a colorful fruit platter to keep the fresh flavor going.
Picnic Option: This salad is fantastic at picnics; pack it in a cooler with a refreshing lemonade for the ultimate summer feast.

FAQ

Yes! The Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad can be prepared ahead of time, but to keep the ingredients fresh, I recommend storing the dressing separately. You can make the dressing and store it in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the salad together and drizzle with dressing.

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can easily substitute it with feta cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, you can leave the cheese out altogether or use a plant-based cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor!

Absolutely! The Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad is perfect for meal prep. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This way, your salad will stay crisp and fresh. You can portion it out in containers and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

This salad is quite versatile! You can add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even mango for a tropical twist. Each of these fruits will add a different flavor and texture, making the salad even more exciting and delicious. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your additions!

Conclusion

The Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad is truly a delightful dish that combines freshness, flavor, and nutrition. Its vibrant colors and textures make it a standout choice for any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and taste the harmony of flavors for yourself. It’s perfect for sunny days, gatherings, or simply as a nourishing lunch. Enjoy every bite!