Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad Recipe

Looking for healthy salad recipes with fruit to add to your meal plan? This strawberry avocado spinach salad is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, an ultimate pick among avocado salad recipes.

It’s an elegant yet simple dish that works for casual lunches, light dinners, or even as a standout option at dinner parties. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach, juicy strawberries, and creamy avocados, this salad is a true winner for spring and summer!

As the days get warmer, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a bowl of fresh, vibrant ingredients. This spinach and strawberry salad recipe combines the best of fruit and veggie salad recipes, creating a colorful dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Whether you’re embracing an all-fruit and veggie diet meal or looking for summer salad ideas dinners, this one checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s an easy delicious salad recipe that’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

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This salad is reminiscent of leisurely spring afternoons spent outdoors, soaking in the sunshine while enjoying light yet flavorful meals. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy elegant salads dinner parties or anyone aiming for loose-weight salad recipes packed with essential nutrients. Let’s dive into why this salad will quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile: Great as a light lunch, side dish, or even a standalone meal.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors make it a showstopper for gatherings and dinner parties.
• Diet-Friendly: This is an easy healthy gluten-free lunch that fits into various meal plans, including weight loss-focused diets.

How To Make Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 large avocado, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for added creaminess)
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

This simple yet flavorful combination highlights the best of easy delicious salad recipes. From its vibrant appearance to its refreshing taste, it’s guaranteed to impress both your family and guests. With such a straightforward recipe, you’ll never run out of ideas for healthy, light meals that fit perfectly into an all fruit and veggie diet meal or a spring-inspired feast.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• A large mixing bowl for assembling the salad
• A sharp knife for slicing strawberries, avocado, and red onion
• A cutting board
• A small whisk or fork for mixing the dressing
• A measuring cup and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
• A salad spinner (optional, but helpful for washing and drying spinach)
• A skillet for toasting almonds (if not pre-toasted)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base:
   • Wash and dry the baby spinach using a salad spinner or pat it dry with paper towels.
   • Place the spinach in a large mixing bowl.
2. Slice and Add Ingredients:
   • Slice the strawberries and avocado into bite-sized pieces.
   • Thinly slice the red onion.
   • Add the strawberries, avocado, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with spinach.
3. Toast the Almonds:
   • Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced almonds and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden and fragrant.
   • Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to the salad.
4. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
5. Combine and Serve:
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
   • Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
   • Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top for added crunch.

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your salad depends on the freshness of the produce. Choose ripe avocados and sweet, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
• Prevent Browning: To keep the avocado from browning, toss it in a bit of lemon juice before adding it to the salad.
• Customize It: Feel free to swap feta cheese for goat cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a vegan option. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Double the Dressing: Make extra dressing and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It pairs well with other salads too.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the salad right after tossing it with the dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Greens: Swap baby spinach with arugula, kale, or mixed spring greens for a different flavor profile.
• Fruits: Substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even orange segments for a fun twist.
• Nuts: Replace almonds with pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds to match your taste preference.
• Dressing: Experiment with different dressings like raspberry vinaigrette or honey mustard for a unique spin.
• Cheese: Use blue cheese or shredded Parmesan if you prefer something bolder.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a more filling meal.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Pair this salad with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a hearty soup for a balanced meal.
• For Brunch: Serve alongside quiche or avocado toast for a refreshing addition to your morning spread.
• Dinner Parties: Present the salad in a large, shallow bowl for a stunning centerpiece.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a standalone dish for a quick and nutritious lunch.
• Picnics: Pack the salad and dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep it fresh.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftover salad without dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing in a separate container.
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If you add a protein like chicken, reheat the protein separately before adding it back to the salad.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the ingredients ahead of time but assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness.

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FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad vegan? A: Absolutely! Omit the feta cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Q: What can I use instead of almonds? A: Pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives for added crunch.

Q: How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown? A: Toss the diced avocado with a bit of lemon juice or lime juice before adding it to the salad.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries? A: Fresh strawberries are ideal, but if you must use frozen, thaw and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

Q: How far in advance can I prepare this salad? A: You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but wait to combine and dress the salad until just before serving for the best texture and flavor.