Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This delightful Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to elegant dinner parties. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while the creamy avocado and sweet strawberries provide a delicious contrast. Tossed in a light poppyseed dressing, this salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 15 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, ripe strawberries, and creamy avocado, this salad is a healthy choice.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main course, it can be served at barbecues, brunches, or as part of a light lunch.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade poppyseed dressing adds a sweet and tangy touch that enhances the salad’s overall taste.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out cheese or nuts based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, gather the essential tools to streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk (or jar with lid): A whisk helps emulsify the dressing quickly; using a jar lets you shake it up for convenience.
• Cutting Board & Knife: These are essential for safely preparing fresh fruits and vegetables.

Ingredients

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

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the avocado oil, red apple vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and emulsified. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese (or chosen alternative), toasted almonds, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing.
2. Serve immediately for optimal freshness and enjoy your delicious Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This refreshing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a family meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad as a standalone dish. It’s light yet filling, making it great for lunch.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. The flavors complement each other well.

With a Bread Basket

• Present the salad alongside a fresh bread basket. Warm rolls or baguettes are excellent choices to soak up the dressing.

Garnished with Extra Nuts

• Sprinkle additional toasted almonds on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

On Buffet Tables

• Place the salad in a large bowl at gatherings. Its vibrant colors will attract guests and add appeal to your buffet.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To make this salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use ripe avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the creamiest texture.
• Choose fresh spinach: Fresh baby spinach leaves contribute to the overall lightness and flavor of the salad.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of honey based on your taste preference; add more for sweetness or less for tanginess.
• Add seasonal fruits: Consider including other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for additional color and nutrition.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately until serving to keep the salad fresh.
• Serve chilled: Refrigerate the assembled salad for 15-30 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing experience.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Complement your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with these delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy chicken seasoned with herbs pairs well and adds protein to your meal.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf infused with herbs offers a nutritious grain option alongside the salad.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn brings summer vibes that harmonize perfectly with fresh salads.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies provide a hearty addition to your table.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the salad’s flavors while adding fiber and vitamins.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds depth and warmth to your meal setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing can be simple, but a few common mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using unripe avocados: Always select ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture. Check for slight softness when gently pressed.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed after tossing.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting salt and pepper can dull the taste. Season your salad just before serving to enhance its overall flavor.
• Cutting ingredients too large: Make sure to slice fruits and vegetables into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even distribution of flavors and easier eating.
• Using stale nuts: Toasted almonds should be fresh and crunchy. Always check the expiration date or toast them yourself right before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado and spinach’s texture changes when thawed.
• If you must freeze, separate the ingredients and only freeze what can withstand freezing, like almonds.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread out any components you’d like warm on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short bursts, checking frequently until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Sauté any desired ingredients over low heat until warmed, taking care not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prepare strawberries for my salad?

To prepare strawberries, simply hull them by removing the green tops and slice them thinly. Rinse under cold water before adding them to your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

Can I use different greens in this salad?

Absolutely! While spinach is a fantastic base, feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I customize my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

You can add other fruits like blueberries or apples, swap out cheese types, or include proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra substance.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! All of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

If you’re looking for alternatives, balsamic vinaigrette or a citrus-based dressing could complement the flavors nicely as substitutes for poppyseed dressing.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only vibrant and delicious but also versatile enough to fit various occasions. Feel free to customize it based on seasonal fruits or your personal preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing taste of this Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and colors. Perfect for summer picnics, brunches, or elegant dinner parties, this salad features nutrient-rich ingredients like baby spinach, ripe strawberries, and creamy avocado. Tossed in a light homemade poppyseed dressing that offers a sweet and tangy twist, it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing choice for health-conscious eaters. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, this versatile recipe can be served as a main course or side dish, making it an essential addition to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• For the dressing: avocado oil, red apple vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt & pepper

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together avocado oil, red apple vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper until emulsified.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, avocado, cheese of choice, almonds and red onion.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until well-coated.
4. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg