Ingredients
— The Salad —
10 oz fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 large ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
1/2 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds (toasted)
1/4 cup red onion, very thinly sliced
— Balsamic Poppyseed Dressing —
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. **Make the Dressing:** In a small mason jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Seal and shake vigorously (or whisk well) until the dressing is smooth and completely emulsified. Set aside.
2. **Toast the Nuts (Optional):** If your nuts aren’t already toasted, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
3. **Assemble the Base:** In a large wide serving bowl or platter, lay down an even bed of the fresh baby spinach. Scatter the sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and cooled toasted nuts over the greens.
4. **Add Avocado and Cheese:** Gently arrange the sliced avocado on top (adding it now prevents it from getting mashed). Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese evenly over the entire salad.
5. **Dress and Serve:** Just before serving, give the dressing another quick shake and drizzle it lightly over the salad. Gently toss to combine, being careful not to break up the avocado slices. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.
Notes
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Wash and slice the strawberries and onions, but wait to slice the avocado until right before serving to prevent it from turning brown.
Preventing Brown Avocado: If you must slice the avocado slightly ahead of time, toss the slices gently in a little bit of fresh lemon or lime juice before adding them to the salad.
Protein Additions: Turn this salad into a hearty main course by adding sliced grilled chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or a scoop of quinoa on top.
Dairy-Free/Vegan Option: Omit the cheese (or use a vegan alternative) and be sure to swap the honey for maple syrup in the dressing.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American