Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful dish that bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, this salad showcases the perfect balance of sweetness from strawberries and creaminess from avocado. It’s not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with nutrients and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with fresh spinach, strawberries, and avocado, this salad is a nutrient powerhouse.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or light main course, suitable for various occasions like summer gatherings or weekday dinners.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade poppyseed dressing enhances the flavors without overpowering them, creating a balanced taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, having the right tools will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or jar for shaking dressing
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space to combine all the salad ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Whisk or jar: A whisk helps emulsify the dressing quickly. Alternatively, shaking in a jar ensures even mixing without dirtying extra dishes.

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: Make the Poppyseed Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. If using a jar, shake until emulsified.
2. Taste your dressing and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled blue cheese (or alternative), toasted almonds, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the prepared poppyseed dressing over the salad ingredients.
3. Gently toss everything together until well coated.

Step 3: Serve Immediately

1. Enjoy your fresh Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing right away for optimal flavor and texture!

How to Serve Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This vibrant Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad is perfect for any occasion. It pairs well with various dishes and can be served as a main course or a delightful side.

As a Light Main Course

• A fresh and filling option that works well for lunch or dinner.
• Top with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

At a Picnic or BBQ

• This salad is easy to transport, making it great for outdoor gatherings.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables and fresh bread.

With a Hearty Soup

• Pair this salad with a bowl of minestrone or tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• The refreshing flavors of the salad complement the warmth of the soup perfectly.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include this salad in your brunch lineup for a colorful addition.
• It pairs beautifully with quiches or frittatas.

How to Perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

To ensure you create the best Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and seasonal strawberries enhance flavor and texture.
• Toast almonds – Toasting the sliced almonds adds a crunchy depth to the salad. Just lightly brown them in a dry skillet for a few minutes.
• Make dressing ahead – Prepare the poppyseed dressing in advance to allow flavors to meld. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Adjust sweetness – Taste your dressing before adding honey; you might prefer it less sweet depending on your palate.
• Add proteins – Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition and satisfaction.
• Serve immediately – For the best experience, serve the salad right after tossing with the dressing to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

This delightful salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Seasoned chicken skewers add protein and complement the salad’s flavors nicely.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs provides a wholesome grain option that matches well.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness balances out the tangy dressing in the salad beautifully.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with crisp vegetables offer a refreshing crunch alongside the salad.
5. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for a delightful pairing.
6. Caprese Salad – The classic Italian dish of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Freshness is key. Always check your spinach and strawberries for quality before use.
• Not seasoning the dressing: Failing to taste and season your dressing can result in bland flavors. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
• Overmixing the salad: Tossing too vigorously can damage delicate ingredients like avocado. Gently combine to maintain texture.
• Skipping the toasting of nuts: Toasting almonds adds a rich flavor. Always toast them before adding to your salad for a crunchy bite.
• Preparing in advance: While it’s tempting to make ahead, salads are best enjoyed fresh. If necessary, keep components separate until serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh ingredients.
• If needed, freeze only the dressing separately for up to one month.

Reheating Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm salad gently on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until just warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Briefly sauté on low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I add protein to my Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing?

Yes! Grilled chicken or turkey makes an excellent addition for extra protein.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply omit cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

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

Whisk all dressing ingredients together until emulsified; adjust seasoning as needed.

What can I substitute for poppy seeds in this salad?

Chia seeds or sesame seeds work well as alternatives, offering similar texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delightful combination of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for numerous customization options such as adding different fruits or proteins. Enjoy this refreshing dish today!