Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to whip up, making it suitable for both casual meals and special gatherings. The delightful combination of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and earthy spinach creates a medley of flavors that please any palate. Plus, the homemade poppyseed dressing adds an extra touch of charm, making this salad a standout choice on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and fruits, this salad is not only tasty but also loaded with vitamins.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish at barbecues, or even as a starter for dinner parties.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to switch up the cheese or nuts based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful ingredients create an appealing dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing efficiently, having the right tools is essential. They not only make the process smoother but also enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar
• Whisk (or jar with lid for shaking)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing all the ingredients together without spilling.
• Small bowl or jar: Perfect for mixing the poppyseed dressing; a jar allows you to shake it up easily.
• Whisk: Ensures that all dressing ingredients are well combined for a smooth consistency.

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 wine 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 all dressing ingredients together vigorously until emulsified.
2. Taste the dressing and season it with a pinch of fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper as needed.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all salad ingredients: spinach, strawberries, avocado, blue cheese (or alternative), sliced almonds, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad evenly.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
2. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of this delightful salad!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This refreshing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light lunch, this salad pairs well with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• A light lunch: Enjoy this salad on its own for a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Dinner starter: Serve it before a main course to whet your appetite.

With Grilled Proteins

• Grilled chicken: The flavors complement each other perfectly, adding protein and heartiness.
• Salmon: A rich addition that balances the freshness of the salad.

On a Buffet Table

• At parties: This salad can be a colorful addition to any buffet, inviting guests to fill their plates.
• Potlucks: Easy to transport and share, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser.

With Homemade Bread

• Crusty baguette: Serve slices on the side for a complete meal experience.
• Garlic bread: Adds warmth and flavor that pairs well with the salad’s brightness.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To make your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad even better, consider these simple tips. Each one will help enhance the overall taste and presentation of this delightful dish.

• Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
• Dress at the right time: Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to maintain crispness.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch or substitute cheeses based on your preference.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes can enhance its flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Pairing your Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with complementary sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky corn is a delicious summer side that adds texture.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs offers protein and a hearty complement.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze bring Italian flair.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the salad’s tartness.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or meat provide a satisfying option alongside the salad.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these rolls pair well without overpowering the salad’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, there are some common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your dressing can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Using overripe avocados: Overripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed but are not mushy.
• Cutting ingredients too early: Preparing fruits and veggies too far in advance can cause them to brown or lose freshness. Only cut them right before serving.
• Not mixing the dressing enough: If you don’t whisk or shake the dressing thoroughly, it may separate. Ensure it’s well combined for a balanced flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient proportions: Adding too much of any ingredient can throw off the salad’s overall taste. Stick closely to the recipe ratios for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado and spinach’s texture changes.
• If necessary, consider freezing components separately (like dressing) but not together.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until just warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until warm, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid wilting the spinach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing.

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

Yes, you can prepare all ingredients ahead but keep them separate until serving for optimal freshness.

What other ingredients can I add to this salad?

Feel free to include nuts, seeds, or different fruits like blueberries or mangoes for variety.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad will last up to 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this salad healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with nutrients from spinach, strawberries, and avocado while being low in calories.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that is quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for summer meals or as a light lunch option. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or swapping out cheeses. Enjoy this refreshing dish anytime!