An avocado and spinach salad is a fresh, nutritious, and vibrant dish that’s perfect as a side or a light main course. The creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the slightly bitter spinach, and you can add various other ingredients to enhance the flavors. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious avocado and spinach salad:
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1-2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- ¼ cup toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly. Place them in a large salad bowl.
- Slice the avocado and add it to the bowl with the spinach.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes (if using), and crumbled cheese (if using).
- Sprinkle the toasted nuts or seeds over the top.
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Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk until well combined and emulsified.
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Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the salad at its freshest.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Fruit Twist: Try adding sliced strawberries, apple chunks, or pomegranate seeds for a fruity touch.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or chives can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Grains: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro to make the salad more filling.
This avocado and spinach salad is refreshing, easy to make, and full of healthy fats and nutrients. It’s a great option for a quick lunch or as a side dish for dinner. Enjoy!
