This vibrant and refreshing salad features juicy strawberries, creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts over a bed of baby spinach, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy poppy seed vinaigrette. A perfect balance of flavors and textures, this salad is both visually appealing and satisfying, ideal for warm-weather meals or elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Avocado and Goat Cheese is the perfect blend of freshness and indulgence. The juicy sweetness of strawberries contrasts beautifully with the rich creaminess of goat cheese and avocado, while the walnuts and optional pumpkin seeds provide a delightful crunch. The poppy seed dressing ties everything together with a light and tangy finish. It’s quick to make, nutritious, and equally suitable as a main dish or a vibrant side.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

5 cups baby spinach
1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (optional)

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
Salt and black pepper to taste

directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, halved strawberries, diced avocado, crumbled goat cheese, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds (if using).
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
4. Gently toss to combine and coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Serve immediately as a light main course or a vibrant side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2 to 3 main dish servings or 4 to 5 side servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Cheese Options: Substitute goat cheese with feta, blue cheese, or fresh mozzarella.
• Nuts and Seeds: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds based on preference.
• Vinaigrette Twist: Replace poppy seed dressing with balsamic glaze or a citrus vinaigrette for a flavor variation.
• Fruit Alternatives: Use blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples in place of strawberries for seasonal variety.

storage/reheating

This salad is best served fresh. However, components can be prepared ahead:

• Store the dressing separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the salad ingredients (excluding avocado and dressing) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Add avocado and toss with dressing just before serving to prevent browning and sogginess.
  This dish does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and dressing separately ahead of time. Assemble just before serving for best texture and freshness.

What can I use instead of goat cheese?

Feta, blue cheese, or a mild brie are excellent alternatives to goat cheese.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

With a few adjustments—such as omitting the goat cheese and using maple syrup instead of honey—the salad can be made vegan.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are highly recommended for best texture and appearance, but thawed frozen berries can be used in a pinch.

What type of vinegar works best in the dressing?

Apple cider vinegar provides a mild, fruity acidity, but white balsamic or red wine vinegar can also be used.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add the avocado just before serving and toss it with the dressing to help preserve its color.

Can I use mixed greens instead of spinach?

Yes, arugula, spring mix, or kale are all good substitutes for baby spinach.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or even tofu complement the flavors and enhance the meal’s heartiness.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Absolutely. Simply scale up the ingredients proportionally and mix just before serving to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Avocado and Goat Cheese is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy. It is a dish that’s as nourishing as it is elegant—ideal for quick lunches, weekend brunches, or as a colorful side for dinner parties. With minimal prep and versatile ingredients, this salad brings fresh flavor to any occasion.

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