Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful blend of fresh flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a healthy lunch option, this salad shines. The sweetness of strawberries and creaminess of avocado combine beautifully with the crunchy texture of almonds, all tied together with a simple yet flavorful poppyseed dressing. Easy to prepare and bursting with nutrients, this salad will impress your guests while keeping things light and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing creates a delicious taste that excites the palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or add protein to make it a complete meal. It’s great for picnics or potlucks too!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is not only tasty but also contributes to your overall health.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing and perfect for impressing your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar with lid
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for tossing all the salad ingredients together without spilling.
• Whisk or jar with lid: These are key for emulsifying the dressing smoothly, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries and dicing avocado quick and safe.

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

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 (or olive oil), red apple vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, fine sea salt, and freshly-ground black pepper.
2. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well emulsified. Adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or pepper.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese (or goat cheese or feta), toasted sliced almonds, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad ingredients.
3. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Serve Immediately

Serve your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad immediately for the freshest taste. Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your meal!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Serving your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing can elevate any meal. This salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it a great addition to various occasions.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve this salad alone for a light and nutritious meal. Pair it with whole-grain bread for added texture.

At a Summer Picnic

• Pack it in a portable container for an easy-to-carry dish. The vibrant colors will impress your friends while providing a healthy option.

With Grilled Proteins

• Complement grilled chicken or shrimp with this salad. The fresh flavors of the salad will balance the smoky notes of the grilled meats.

As a Starter for Dinner Parties

• Offer it as an appetizer before a main course. Its beautiful presentation and lightness will stimulate appetites without overwhelming guests.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To enhance your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad, consider these simple tips that make a big difference.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
• Toast Almonds: Toasting almonds brings out their nutty flavor, adding depth to your salad.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of honey in the dressing based on your taste preference; some prefer it sweeter than others.
• Add Protein: Boost the nutritional value by including grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately. Combine just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese to find your preferred flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its fresh flavors.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, grilled chicken adds protein and heartiness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf enhances the meal’s nutritional value while providing a satisfying grain component.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the tangy salad dressing.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a delightful texture contrast, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
5. Cucumber Soup: A chilled cucumber soup can provide a refreshing starter that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s flavors.
6. Cheese Platter: Include an assortment of cheeses that can be enjoyed alongside or even sprinkled on top of the salad for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a salad might seem easy, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Always use fresh spinach and ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Stale or old produce will result in a less appealing salad.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the flavors. Start with a little and add more as needed to achieve the right balance.
• Neglecting texture: A great salad needs a variety of textures. Include crunchy elements like toasted almonds to enhance your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad.
• Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dressing! A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Making it ahead of time: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you prepare it too early, the spinach can wilt and the avocado may brown.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Avoid adding dressing if you plan to store it; keep it on the side until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the avocado and delicate greens.
• The texture will change upon thawing, making it less enjoyable.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 5 minutes. This is not typical for salads but can work if you want warm ingredients.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-30 seconds. Be cautious, as this may make greens soggy.
• Stovetop: Sauté on low heat quickly just until warmed through—keep stirring to avoid wilting too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other greens in my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad?

Yes! You can substitute baby kale or arugula for spinach if you prefer different flavors and textures.

How do I make a vegan version of the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

To make it vegan, omit the cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

What other toppings can I add to my salad?

Feel free to customize with nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for added protein while keeping the essence of your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad intact.

Can I prepare the poppyseed dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Experiment with different toppings or dressings based on your taste preferences. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at gatherings. Try making this refreshing salad today!