Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Oh, friends, let me tell you about this salad. It’s not just any salad; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that somehow manages to be both incredibly refreshing and deeply satisfying. I remember the first time I had something similar; it was at a little cafe tucked away on a side street during a summer vacation. I’ve been trying to recreate that magic ever since, and I think I’ve finally nailed it with this Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe. It’s like a Caprese salad decided to go on a tropical vacation – sweet, savory, and surprisingly filling! I promise, this is going to become a new staple in your house, just like it has in mine.
What is a spinach salad?
What’s a spinach salad? What is essentially a leafy green salad base – we’re using spinach for its mild flavor and incredible texture. Nutritional value – topped with juicy, ripe strawberries and creamy, healthy avocado. What’s the best homemade poppy seed dressing? Is there a little tang to this ice cream, just the right amount of creaminess? I know this sounds strange, but trust me, the combination is pure magic. The sweetness of strawberries plays so well with the richness of the avocado and the slight hint of spice. The bitterness of the spinach, and the dressing just elevates it all.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, the flavor. The sweet strawberries are a delightful counterpoint to the creamy avocado, and the spinach provides a healthy, earthy base. That dressing? Don’t even get me started. It’s creamy, tangy, and just a little bit sweet – the perfect complement to all the other flavors. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. We’re talking less than 15 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute lunches. It’s also surprisingly affordable. Strawberries can be a bit pricey depending on the season, but spinach and avocado are usually pretty budget-friendly, and you probably already have most of the dressing ingredients on hand. But beyond all that, this salad is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or even a healthy dessert. It’s similar to a classic Cobb salad in terms of versatility, but with a lighter, sweeter twist. This recipe is one that I find myself reaching for again and again.
How do you make spinach salad?
Quick Overview
How do I make this Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing? What are some good ways to make a simple salad dressing, toss spinach with strawberries and avocado, drizzle with olive oil and serve. With dressing, and that’s it! Is it that simple? What are some of the best ways to use fresh ingredients in cooking? Is spinach healthy for Don’t be afraid to adjust the dressing to your liking. If you like it sweeter, add a little more honey. If you prefer it tangier, add a splash more vinegar. It’s all about making it your own.
Ingredients Notes
For the Salad:
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is my go-to because it’s tender and mild. Make sure to wash it thoroughly!
Ripe Strawberries: Look for bright red berries that smell sweet. Hull them and slice them in half (or quarters if they’re large).
Ripe Avocado: The avocado should be slightly soft to the touch. Is it safe to eat a potato just before serving?
Optional additions: Is it good to eat grilled chicken or shrimp with feta cheese, toasted almonds, crumbled cheese and red onion?
For the Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing:
Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand. What is the best creaminess of full fat mayo?
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a nice tang. Can you substitute apple cider vinegar for white wine vinegar?
Honey: Sweetens dressing. You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar.
Poppy Seeds: Adds a lovely nutty flavor and texture.
What is Dijon mustard?
Salt and pepper: To taste.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard and salt. Set aside. What is mustard, salt and pepper? Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I always do this first to let the flavors meld while I prep the rest of the salad.
Step 2: Prep the Spinach
Wash spinach thoroughly and pat it dry. If you are using larger spinach leaves, you can tear them into smaller pieces.
Step 3: Prep the Strawberries and Avocado
How do you slice a strawberry. Dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. I’ve tried using pre-cut avocado before and it’s just not the same. Freshly diced is the way to go!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and avocado. Gently toss to combine.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
How do you serve poppy seed dressing over salad? Be careful not to overdress it – you want just enough to coat the leaves lightly. I always start with a little and add more as needed.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Serve the salad immediately. If you’re adding any optional toppings, like toasted almonds or feta cheese, sprinkle them on top. Just before serving.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Take a bite and enjoy the symphony of flavors! This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so don’t let it sit too long before serving.
What should I serve it with?
Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is incredibly versatile. What are some good ways to serve a variety of dishes?
For Lunch:Serve it as a light and refreshing lunch on its own, or pair it with grilled chicken breast or roasted potatoes. What is the best source of protein for a fish?
For Dinner:What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled meats? Is it safe to eat with fish?
For Brunch:What is a good salad for brunch? It’s light, refreshing, and adds a pop of color to the table. I’ve brought it to potlucks and it’s always a hit!
For a Picnic:What is a good salad to bring to the park? Is it safe to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve it?
My family loves this with grilled cheese sandwich for a quick weeknight meal. What are some good side dishes to serve with a quiche for an elegant brunch?
How do you prepare a spinach salad with strawberries and avocado?
What are some of the best tips and tricks for making a perfect strawberry cake? Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe every time.
Strawberry Selection: What areChoose a bright red, plump and fragrant strawberry. Avoid berries that look bruised or mushy. I always give them a good sniff before buying them!
Avocado Ripeness:Avocados should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. If it’s too hard, it isn’t ripe enough. If too soft, its too late. What is the best way to find the perfect avocado?
What is the best wayBe sure to wash spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand. Is it safe to use a salad spinner to remove excess water? Soggy spinach is a no-go!
Dress Consistency: Adjust the amount of honey and apple cider vinegar in the dressing to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more honey. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more apple cider vinegar. I’ve even experimented with adding a touch of lemon zest for extra brightness.
Adding Protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also add toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and protein.
Make Ahead: The salad is best served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, and make the dressing. Store everything separately and combine just before serving. I usually do this when I know I’ll be short on time later.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but here are some tips for storing leftovers:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving the salad at room temperature for more than an hour, especially if it’s a warm day. The spinach will wilt, and the avocado will start to brown.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The spinach may wilt slightly, and the avocado may brown a bit, but it will still be edible. I find it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
Freezer Instructions: I do not recommend freezing this salad. The spinach will become mushy, and the avocado will turn brown and watery.
Glaze Timing Advice: Since there is no glaze in this recipe it is not relevant here
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe a try. It’s a simple, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of summer. The creamy avocado, sweet strawberries, and tangy dressing create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. If you love this salad, be sure to check out my other salad recipes! They’re all designed to be easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, be sure to share them with me too. Happy cooking!
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Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups baby spinach washed and dried
- 1.5 cups strawberries hulled and sliced
- 2 whole avocados peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 0.5 cup pecans toasted
- 0.25 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 0.5 cup poppy seed dressing store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and avocado.
- Sprinkle with pecans and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
