Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that create a vibrant and tasty dish. Perfect for summer picnics, lunch gatherings, or as a light dinner side, this salad brings together sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds in a refreshing dressing. With its quick preparation time and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to be a favorite at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This salad can be made in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of strawberries and avocados provides a burst of freshness that makes every bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main dish or side, it pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out cheeses or nuts based on your preference, making it adaptable for various diets.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures that your salad comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar with lid
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Essential for emulsifying the dressing quickly; using a jar lets you shake everything together effortlessly.
• Knife: A good knife is crucial for slicing strawberries and avocado safely and efficiently.

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

How to Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
2. Avocado oil (or olive oil)
3. Red apple vinegar
4. Honey
5. Poppy seeds
6. Dijon mustard
7. Whisk vigorously until emulsified. Taste the dressing and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add:
2. Fresh baby spinach
3. Sliced strawberries
4. Diced avocado
5. Crumbled blue cheese (or alternative)
6. Toasted sliced almonds
7. Thinly sliced red onion

Step 3: Dress the Salad

1. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad ingredients.
2. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad right away for the freshest taste!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This delightful Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a refreshing addition to a picnic, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy it solo for a quick and healthy meal that fills you up without weighing you down.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken for added protein. The savory flavors complement the sweetness of the strawberries.

At a Barbecue

• Serve it at summer barbecues. It’s a refreshing contrast to heavier grilled foods and is sure to impress your guests.

As Part of a Brunch Buffet

• Include it in your brunch spread. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it an eye-catching choice.

On Top of Quinoa

• For a hearty option, serve the salad over cooked quinoa. This adds fiber and makes it more filling.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Prepare it in advance and pack it for lunches throughout the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To elevate your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad, consider these simple tips that enhance its flavor and presentation.

• Fresh ingredients: Use only fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and sweet strawberries for the best taste.
• Toast almonds: Toasting the almonds adds a crunchy texture and enhances their flavor.
• Adjust dressing: Feel free to modify the poppyseed dressing to suit your taste; add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
• Use quality cheese: Opt for high-quality blue cheese or feta, as it adds depth to the salad’s flavor profile.
• Keep avocados intact: Add diced avocados just before serving to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill briefly in the fridge before serving; this melds the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Salmon: A light yet flavorful fish dish that works well with fruity salads.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the salad’s ingredients.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty grain that adds heartiness while remaining healthy.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella provide a classic Italian twist alongside your salad.
5. Garlic Bread: Perfect for those who crave something warm and crispy next to their greens.
6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed option that enhances the meal’s nutritional value while balancing flavors.
7. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits offer a sweet side that matches well with your salad’s bright notes.
8. Veggie Spring Rolls: These light rolls add crunch and freshness, making them an ideal accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing can be simple, but there are common errors that could affect your salad’s taste and texture.

• Ignoring Freshness: Using wilted or old spinach can ruin your salad. Always opt for fresh baby spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing makes the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Skipping Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to season your dressing with salt and pepper for a flavor boost.
• Cutting Ingredients Incorrectly: Unevenly cut strawberries or avocado can affect presentation and eating experience. Aim for consistent sizes for a beautiful and balanced salad.
• Not Toasting Nuts: Forgetting to toast almonds misses out on a depth of flavor. Toast them briefly to enhance their crunchiness and taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad because of the avocado and spinach texture change.
• If necessary, freeze only the dressing in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes if using leftovers but expect textural changes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15 seconds, stirring in between until just warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté gently over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad healthier?

You can substitute honey with agave syrup or reduce the amount of cheese used for a lighter version.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop all ingredients in advance but should assemble them just before serving to maintain freshness.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

Lemon vinaigrette or balsamic vinaigrette are great alternatives that complement the ingredients beautifully.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad?

Store in an airtight container without dressing and consume within two days for best quality.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Enjoy its fresh flavors as part of any meal or as a light snack!