This Fresh Strawberry Avocado Salad is a perfect blend of sweet strawberries and creamy avocado. Topped with a light dressing, it’s both tasty and refreshing!
You can serve it as a side or snack, and trust me, the colors just pop! I like to enjoy it on sunny days—nothing beats a bowl of this deliciousness while soaking up the sun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds a mild flavor and is packed with nutrients. You can substitute mixed greens for variety or use arugula for a peppery kick!
Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste. If strawberries are out of season, try raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor.
Avocado: Ripe avocados give a creamy texture. If you can’t find them, you can use fresh mango slices as a tasty alternative!
Pecans: These add a lovely crunch. If you’re looking for something different, walnuts or almonds work well too, or skip nuts for a nut-free option.
Quinoa: This is optional but adds a nice texture. You could use cooked farro or even chickpeas for added protein.
How Can I Keep My Avocado from Browning?
To prevent avocado from browning too quickly, arrange the slices on top of the salad after you’ve added other ingredients. This way, they stay protected from air.
- Use lemon juice on the avocado slices before adding them to the salad. The acidity helps slow browning.
- Serve the salad immediately after mixing, or keep the dressing separate and add it right before eating. This keeps everything fresh!
Fresh Strawberry Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves (or mixed greens)
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked quinoa (optional, for added texture)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. With no cooking involved, you can easily whip it up for a quick lunch, side dish, or even a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Salad Base:
Start by washing your baby spinach leaves or mixed greens. Place them in a large salad bowl as the base of your salad.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, toss in the thinly sliced cucumber, hulled and sliced strawberries, and if you like, the quinoa for extra texture. Give everything a gentle mix to combine the flavors.
3. Arrange the Avocados:
Slice your ripe avocado and arrange the slices on top of the salad. This helps prevent the avocado from browning and adds a beautiful presentation!
4. Sprinkle with Pecans:
Evenly sprinkle the roughly chopped pecans over the salad for a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
5. Make Your Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider or balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This creates a light and tangy dressing.
6. Combine Before Serving:
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine everything, being careful to keep the avocado slices intact.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your fresh strawberry avocado salad is ready to serve! Enjoy this vibrant dish as a light meal or a side that will impress your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries or Avocados?
While fresh strawberries and avocado yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if needed. Just ensure they are thawed and drained. Frozen avocado can be used in a pinch, but it may have a different texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
It’s easy! Simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. The salad is naturally vegan aside from the honey, so you’re good to go!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This will help maintain the freshness of the avocado and prevent it from browning.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving for optimal freshness.
