Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

I dare say this is one of the best salads you’ll ever eat! The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just a salad; it’s a vibrant mix of flavors and nutritious ingredients that will elevate any meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a potluck dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests. The standout feature is the homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing, which adds a delightful zing and makes every bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Each ingredient complements the others, creating an explosion of taste.
• Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins from spinach and avocados.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a side dish for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing in advance for a quicker assembly.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the smooth and creamy Orange Poppy Seed dressing.
• Large Bowl: Provides ample space to toss all the salad ingredients together without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for emulsifying the dressing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 2 tsp dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp poppy seeds

For the Salad

• 1 lb chicken (grilled)
• 9 oz baby spinach
• 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
• 1 cup crumbled feta
• 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Add olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt to a blender. Pulse until well emulsified. Pour into a jar and stir in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the prepared Orange Poppy Seed dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing!

How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its appeal on your dining table.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve the salad as a standalone dish, perfect for a refreshing lunch option.
• Pair it with whole grain bread for added fiber and a satisfying meal.

As a Side Dish

• Offer this salad alongside grilled meats or seafood to complement their flavors.
• It works well as a side at barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings.

For Meal Prep

• Divide the salad into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Garnish Ideas

• Top with extra sliced almonds or feta cheese for an appealing finish.
• Add fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for an extra burst of flavor and color.

How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

To make your salad truly shine, follow these handy tips for perfecting your dish every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and high-quality chicken to enhance the salad’s flavor.
• Customize your dressing: Adjust the honey and mustard in the dressing to suit your taste preferences; you can even try different citrus fruits!
• Toast almonds: Toasting the sliced almonds before adding them enhances their crunch and flavor.
• Add protein variety: While chicken is delicious, consider swapping it out for grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a different spin.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding seasonal fruits like strawberries or apples for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: The crispy texture complements the salad perfectly while adding savory notes.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: This dish provides a hearty grain option that balances well with the lightness of the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add color to your plate.
4. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits can refresh your palate and add a sweet touch.
5. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers offers a delightful variety of textures and flavors next to your salad.
6. Soup of the Day: A light soup, such as tomato basil or minestrone, makes an excellent warm counterpart to this cold salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin the salad’s texture. Choose ripe ones that yield slightly when pressed.
• Neglecting to toast almonds: Toasted almonds add flavor and crunch. Take a few minutes to toast them in a dry skillet for better taste.
• Skipping the marination: For the chicken, skipping marination can lead to bland flavor. Even a quick 30-minute soak can enhance its taste.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure a good balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in your dressing. Adjust honey or lemon juice according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftover salad in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• item Keep the dressing separate from the salad to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

• item It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the ingredients do not thaw well, especially avocado and spinach.

Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken pieces for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat chicken in short bursts (30 seconds) on medium power, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Sauté chicken pieces on low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most ingredients ahead but keep the avocado and dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

What can I substitute for poppy seeds in this recipe?

If you don’t have poppy seeds, chia seeds or sunflower seeds can be great alternatives that still provide texture.

How do I make this salad vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the grilled chicken and add more protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or quinoa.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Absolutely! You can substitute spinach with kale or mixed greens based on your preference.

How long does the orange poppy seed dressing last?

The dressing can last up to one week when stored properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just delicious but also versatile. With its bright flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or substituting proteins based on what you have available. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful recipe!