Avocado and Spinach Salad Recipe: A Refreshing, Nutritious Delight

Are you looking for a light and refreshing salad that’s easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor? This avocado and spinach salad is a perfect choice. Combining the creamy richness of avocado with the tender freshness of baby spinach, this salad is a delightful dish for any meal. Topped with a tangy lemon vinaigrette, this simple recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why Avocado and Spinach?

Avocado and spinach are two ingredients that pair wonderfully together. Avocados add a creamy texture, balancing out the crisp, earthy tones of spinach. Both ingredients also lend themselves to a variety of flavor combinations, making this salad customizable based on your taste preferences. Whether you're preparing it as a side dish or a main course, this salad will impress your guests with its fresh and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the preparation steps, let’s go over the key ingredients you’ll need for this avocado and spinach salad:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• 4 cups baby spinach leaves (fresh)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (or your preferred seeds)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

Let’s break down how to prepare this flavorful avocado and spinach salad in a few simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing the baby spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water. Spinach is delicate, so be sure to handle it gently to avoid bruising the leaves. After washing, use a salad spinner or pat dry the spinach leaves with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Next, move on to slicing the avocado. To make this step easier, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Slice the avocado into thin slices. Then, slice the cucumber and red onion thinly and halve the cherry tomatoes. Set all the prepared vegetables aside.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. This will create a tangy, slightly zesty vinaigrette that complements the creamy avocado perfectly. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on your preference. The balance between the acidity of the lemon and the smoothness of the olive oil is key to this salad’s fresh, light flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Now that your vegetables and dressing are ready, it’s time to assemble the salad. Start by placing the fresh spinach leaves in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced avocado, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on top. If you prefer a more visually appealing presentation, you can arrange the avocado slices in a fan shape over the spinach leaves.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Dressing

Sprinkle the sunflower seeds on top of the salad for added texture and crunch. Sunflower seeds are a great choice, but you can also use pumpkin seeds or toasted almonds if you prefer. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an additional burst of flavor and color.

Finally, drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to combine the ingredients, ensuring the avocado stays intact. The dressing should lightly coat the vegetables without overwhelming them.

Serving Suggestions

This avocado and spinach salad is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even a main course when paired with a protein of your choice. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. As a side dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, roasted dishes, or any fresh and light main course.
2. As a main course: Add protein like roasted chickpeas, tofu, or your favorite protein for a more filling meal.
3. For picnics or gatherings: Prepare the salad in advance and serve it during outdoor events or family dinners. It’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about this avocado and spinach salad is how flexible the recipe is. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Switch up the greens: If you prefer different greens, you can substitute spinach with mixed salad greens, arugula, or kale. Just be sure to choose a base that provides a good texture contrast to the creamy avocado.
• Add grains: To make the salad more filling, add cooked quinoa, couscous, or farro. These grains will add a satisfying bite and extra flavor to the dish.
• Use different seeds or nuts: Swap out the sunflower seeds for other options like chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, or flaxseeds to vary the texture.
• Include fruits: For a sweet twist, add some sliced strawberries, blueberries, or even pomegranate seeds to the salad. The sweetness of the fruit will balance the tanginess of the vinaigrette and add another layer of flavor.

Storing and Preparing Ahead

If you have leftover salad, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, avocados tend to oxidize quickly and may turn brown. To prevent this, toss the avocado in lemon juice before adding it to the salad, or store the avocado slices separately and add them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This avocado and spinach salad is not only simple to prepare, but it’s also a perfect example of how a few fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. The creamy texture of the avocado combined with the tender spinach, crunchy sunflower seeds, and a bright lemon vinaigrette makes for a salad that’s refreshing, flavorful, and ideal for any occasion.

Whether you're serving it as a quick lunch, a nutritious side dish, or a vibrant addition to your next dinner party, this salad is sure to impress. Try it today and experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures for yourself!