Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a refreshing and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, preparing a light lunch, or looking for an impressive side dish at your next dinner party, this salad shines with vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of creamy avocado, sweet strawberries, and tangy dressing makes it a standout choice for health-conscious eaters and flavor enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The mix of strawberries, avocado, and poppyseed dressing creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or add protein to make it a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is not only delicious but also great for your well-being.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients will impress your guests and make any table setting more inviting.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make the preparation process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Using a whisk helps emulsify the dressing; a jar can be shaken for quick mixing.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures clean cuts for fruits and vegetables, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy 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

How to Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients together vigorously in a small bowl until emulsified.
2. Taste the dressing and season with a pinch of salt and freshly-ground black pepper as needed.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients.
2. Drizzle evenly with the prepared dressing.
3. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Serve

Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a light lunch or a side for dinner, this salad is versatile and pleasing.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled: Enjoy the salad cold for a refreshing meal on warm days.
• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier option.

As a Side Salad

• Pair with grilled meats: This salad complements dishes like grilled chicken or steak beautifully.
• Serve alongside soups: A bowl of creamy tomato soup pairs well with the fresh flavors of the salad.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare in advance: Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
• Use mason jars: Layer ingredients in jars for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

At a Potluck

• Bring it to share: This salad is perfect for gatherings—everyone loves the combination of flavors!
• Garnish before serving: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint just before serving for extra flair.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To elevate your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad, consider these simple tips. They will help enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use ripe avocados: Choose avocados that are slightly soft to ensure creaminess in every bite.
• Fresh strawberries are key: Opt for fresh, sweet strawberries for the best taste and color contrast.
• Toast your almonds: Lightly toasting almonds brings out their nutty flavor, adding depth to the salad.
• Make dressing ahead: Allowing the dressing to sit enhances its flavors; prepare it an hour before serving if possible.
• Season your ingredients: A pinch of salt on each component elevates overall flavor and enjoyment.
• Add variety: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for varied tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken adds protein and complements the fresh salad perfectly.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a wholesome grain side that balances the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthy flavors that enhance the freshness of the salad.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans create a nutritious pairing full of flavor.
6. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside yet soft inside, sweet potato wedges add sweetness that harmonizes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baby spinach and ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Old or wilted greens can ruin the salad’s freshness.
• Overdressing the Salad: It’s tempting to drench the salad in dressing, but too much can overpower the other flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Skipping Toasting Nuts: Toasting sliced almonds enhances their flavor. Skipping this step means missing out on a delicious nutty taste that complements the salad.
• Not Balancing Flavors: Ensure a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements in your dressing. Adjust salt and pepper carefully to enhance all flavors without overwhelming them.
• Cutting Ingredients Unevenly: Consistent sizing of avocado and strawberries allows for even distribution in each bite. Aim for similar sizes when chopping or slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in spinach and avocado.
• If necessary, freeze only the dressing for up to 1 month.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place ingredients on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (20 seconds), stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally; avoid overheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

To prepare this salad, combine fresh spinach, strawberries, diced avocado, cheese, onions, and toasted almonds. Drizzle with homemade poppyseed dressing and toss gently.

Can I customize Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

Absolutely! Feel free to add grilled chicken for protein or swap nuts and cheeses based on preference.

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

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood. It also makes a delightful side dish for any meal.

Is Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and healthy fats from avocado, making it a wholesome choice.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only beautiful but also bursting with fresh flavors. It’s perfect for quick meals or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or other seasonal fruits!