Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light lunch, or wanting a healthy side for dinner, this salad fits the bill. With its combination of creamy avocado, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds, every bite bursts with flavor. Plus, the homemade poppyseed dressing adds a delightful tang that makes it stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, fresh strawberries, and creamy avocado, it’s both delicious and healthy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or as a side salad to complement grilled meats or pasta dishes.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Whisk: Essential for combining the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy tossing of the salad without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for fruits and vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

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

Whisk all dressing ingredients together vigorously in a small bowl until emulsified. Alternatively, shake them in a covered jar. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all salad ingredients. Drizzle dressing evenly over the salad.

Step 3: Toss to Combine

Gently toss the salad until everything is well combined. Ensure that each ingredient is coated with the delicious poppyseed dressing.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your vibrant Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad right away for maximum freshness!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This refreshing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a light lunch, here are some serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Serve it chilled for a light lunch or dinner option.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

As a Side Dish

• Complement your favorite grilled meats with this salad.
• It pairs beautifully with seafood dishes like baked salmon.

For Picnics and Gatherings

• Pack it in a portable container for easy transport.
• Serve it on a buffet table as part of a larger spread.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To make the most of your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe strawberries enhance the salad’s flavor.
• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the poppyseed dressing to suit your taste, adding more honey for sweetness if desired.
• Add crunch: Include other nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
• Customize the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for varied flavors.
• Make ahead: Prepare the salad ingredients in advance and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp.
• Garnish creatively: Top with additional poppy seeds or fresh herbs for an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs adds protein and complements the salad’s freshness.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a delightful contrast to the soft textures of the salad.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish can enhance the meal while keeping it healthy and nutritious.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection bring additional color and flavor.
5. Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with cheese make for an indulgent side that balances well.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits offers a sweet counterpoint to the savory elements of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted spinach or overripe strawberries can affect flavor and texture. Always choose fresh, vibrant ingredients for the best result.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve your desired flavor without overwhelming the greens.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season the dressing or salad can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, enhancing the overall dish.
• Skipping the toppings: Forgetting toppings like toasted almonds or cheese can result in a less satisfying salad. Don’t skip these ingredients as they add essential crunch and creaminess.
• Making it too early: Preparing the salad too far in advance may cause the ingredients to wilt or lose their freshness. Assemble just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of fresh vegetables.
• If you must freeze it, consider freezing only the spinach.
• Use freezer-safe containers if needed.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (20-30 seconds) to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing:

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes, you can substitute kale or mixed greens if you prefer. Just ensure they are fresh for better taste.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, replace honey with maple syrup and skip any cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What should I serve with Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a larger buffet spread.

How can I customize this salad?

Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or nuts such as walnuts for additional flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its fresh flavors and textures make it perfect for any meal occasion. Experiment by adding different fruits, nuts, or proteins to tailor it to your taste preferences! Enjoy creating your own version of this delightful salad!