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Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad for a Refreshing Spring Meal

Enjoy this Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad, a vibrant, healthy delight perfect for spring meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Vegan, Vegetarian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Walnuts
  • 1 cup Walnuts Substitute with pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
  • ¼ cup Maple Syrup Honey can be used for a non-vegan alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Optional seasoning with nutmeg can also work.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt Kosher salt is preferred for its texture.
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Omit if spice is not desired.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Can substitute with yellow mustard if needed.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Freshly minced is best, but garlic powder can be used.
  • 3 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Red wine vinegar can be a suitable alternative.
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can work as a substitute.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
For the Salad Base
  • 4 cups Spinach Kale or mixed greens can be used instead.
  • 1 cup Cooked Quinoa Replace with farro or bulgur for a different grain.
  • 1 cup Strawberries Other berries like blueberries or raspberries can be used.
  • 2 medium Avocados Substitute with diced pears for a different texture.
  • ¼ cup Hemp Hearts Chia seeds or sunflower seeds can be a good substitute.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • mason jar
  • salad spinner

Method
 

Caramelizing the Walnuts
  1. In a small skillet over medium-high heat, combine walnuts with maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne. Stir constantly for about 7-10 minutes, allowing the walnuts to brown and become fragrant. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Once they are golden and glossy, remove from heat and let cool on parchment paper.
Preparing the Dressing
  1. In a mason jar or salad shaker, add dijon mustard, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Securely close the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds or until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Assembling the Salad
  1. In individual serving bowls, begin layering fresh spinach leaves as the base. Next, add a scoop of cooked quinoa, followed by sliced strawberries and cubed avocados. Sprinkle hemp hearts over the top and then drizzle the dressing generously over each bowl.
Topping with Caramelized Walnuts
  1. Once your salad is perfectly assembled, finish it off by scattering the cooled caramelized walnuts on top. This adds a satisfying crunch and infuses a sweet, nutty flavor.
Storing Leftovers
  1. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Consider adding the avocado just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be highly customizable with seasonal fruits and nuts. Use a salad spinner to ensure spinach is thoroughly dried after washing.

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