Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is the perfect dish for any occasion. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it works wonderfully as a light lunch, a side dish at barbecues, or even as a healthy starter before dinner. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Flavors: The blend of strawberries and avocado delivers a refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with the poppyseed dressing.
• Versatile Ingredients: Enjoy this salad on its own or as a complement to grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
• Nutrient-Packed: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, this salad supports a nutritious diet without sacrificing flavor.
• Visual Appeal: The bright colors of the strawberries and greens make this dish not only tasty but also beautiful on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar with lid
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk or jar with lid: Use this for mixing the dressing thoroughly; shaking in a jar can save time on cleanup.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing strawberries and avocado quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to chop your ingredients 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 or jar, whisk together the avocado oil, red apple vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until well mixed. Taste the dressing and season it with fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper as needed.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, toasted almonds, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until they are evenly coated with the dressing.
2. Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness. Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Serving Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing can enhance your dining experience. This refreshing salad pairs well with various dishes and can be served in different styles.

As a Main Course

• A light lunch option: Enjoy it on its own for a satisfying midday meal.
• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken or turkey for a heartier main dish.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect alongside grilled meats: This salad complements the flavors of grilled chicken, beef, or lamb.
• Pair with soups: Serve alongside tomato basil soup or creamy vegetable bisque to balance the meal.

At Gatherings and Events

• Buffet style: Place in large bowls for guests to serve themselves during parties or potlucks.
• Individual servings: Present in small bowls or jars for a charming touch at gatherings.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To create the ultimate Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your salad’s flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach, ripe avocados, and seasonal strawberries make all the difference in taste.
• Toast the almonds: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for 20 minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust dressing sweetness: Modify honey levels based on personal preference—more for sweetness or less for tanginess.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can provide an aromatic twist that brightens up the dish.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese to find your favorite combination.

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 excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and a smoky flavor that complements the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs provides a nutritious base that enhances the overall meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and richness when served alongside.
4. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs makes a great accompaniment without overpowering flavors.
5. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup balances the freshness of the salad while adding comfort.
6. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita chips and veggie sticks for a healthy appetizer option that pairs nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key in salads. Always choose ripe strawberries and fresh spinach to enhance flavor and texture.
• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can drown the flavors. Start with a small amount, and add more as needed after tossing.
• Skipping the seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the dish. Don’t forget to season your dressing and salad for better taste.
• Cutting ingredients too early: Slicing fruits or vegetables too far in advance can lead to browning or sogginess. Prepare them just before serving.
• Not balancing flavors: Ensure a mix of sweetness from strawberries and creaminess from avocado. Adjust the dressing if you need more tang or sweetness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its delicate ingredients.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing only the dressing separately.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), warm gently on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15 seconds on low power; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time but keep them separate from the dressing until serving.

What can I substitute for blue cheese in this salad?

You can use goat cheese or feta as alternatives if you’re not fond of blue cheese.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.

Is it okay to add other fruits or nuts to my salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding nuts like walnuts or other fruits like blueberries or kiwi.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is an excellent choice for a quick, fresh meal. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it versatile enough for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients like nuts or seeds to suit your taste!