Name: Strawberry and Avocado Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup strawberries (roughly cut); 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 dash stevia (optional); 4 cups baby spinach leaves (fresh); 4 cups arugula; 1/2 cup strawberries (sliced); 1/3 cup avocado (sliced); 1/3 cup blueberries (or blackberries); 1/2 ounce goat cheese

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The joy of creating a fresh and vibrant dish like Strawberry and Avocado Salad is something I deeply cherish. Last spring, I found myself in a whirlwind of colors and flavors at the local farmer’s market. The sight of plump strawberries, ripe avocados, and an array of leafy greens inspired me to whip up a salad that was not only delicious but a feast for the eyes. This salad embodies the essence of spring—a delightful balance of sweetness from the strawberries and the creamy texture of avocados, all tied together with a homemade strawberry balsamic dressing. I remember sharing it with friends during a sunny weekend brunch, and the smiles around the table were priceless. It’s a simple dish, yet it evokes memories of laughter, warmth, and the beauty of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or impressing guests at a dinner party, this Strawberry and Avocado Salad will surely steal the show.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Blender, Food Processor

What We Adore About This Strawberry and Avocado Salad

Vibrant and Fresh Ingredients

This salad stands out not just in taste but also in its vibrant presentation. The combination of strawberries and avocados creates a beautiful contrast of colors that tantalizes the eye. Each ingredient plays a role: the sweetness of the strawberries complements the creamy richness of the avocados, making every bite a harmonious experience.

Health Benefits

One of the reasons I love this recipe is its health benefits. Avocados are packed with healthy fats that are good for your heart, while strawberries are rich in antioxidants. This salad is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice that aligns with a balanced diet.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

In today’s fast-paced world, having a quick recipe on hand is invaluable. This Strawberry and Avocado Salad comes together in mere minutes. You simply toss the ingredients together and whip up a quick dressing in a blender. It’s a lifesaver on busy days when you want something fresh without the fuss!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad is incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a picnic in the park, or a fancy dinner gathering, it fits right in. Its lightness makes it an ideal starter or a side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood.

Seasonal Delight

Spring is the perfect season for this salad, with strawberries at their peak freshness. It’s a celebration of the season’s bounty and a reminder to savor the flavors that nature provides. Eating this salad during spring feels like a little celebration of life itself.

Homemade Dressing

Creating your own dressing is a game changer. The strawberry balsamic dressing is simple yet elevates the salad to new heights. With just a few ingredients, you can enhance the flavors and bring a personal touch to your creation.

Ingredients for Strawberry and Avocado Salad

When it comes to making a salad, the ingredients are crucial. For this Strawberry and Avocado Salad, each component is selected not just for taste but for the harmony they create together. The combination of fresh greens, sweet fruits, and a tangy dressing complements each other beautifully.

1/2 cup strawberries, roughly cut: Sweet and juicy, these strawberries are the star of the salad.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy depth to the dressing.
1 dash stevia, optional: A hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
4 cups baby spinach leaves: These greens provide a fresh base.
4 cups arugula: Offers a peppery kick that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
1/2 cup strawberries, sliced: For extra bursts of flavor.
1/3 cup avocado, sliced: Creamy and rich, adds a wonderful texture.
1/3 cup blueberries or blackberries: For added color and flavor.
1/2 ounce goat cheese: A salty finish that enhances the overall taste.

Step by Step Instructions for Strawberry and Avocado Salad

Preparing this Strawberry and Avocado Salad is a delightful experience that involves simple steps. You’ll start by making the dressing, which is the heart of the salad, bringing all the flavors together. Then, it’s just a matter of combining everything in a bowl!

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need a food processor or blender for the dressing, so make sure it’s ready to go. Add the 1/2 cup of strawberries, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 1 dash of stevia into the processor. Blend everything until it’s well combined and smooth. This dressing will provide a fruity tang that complements the salad.
If the dressing appears chunky, don’t worry! You can place a sieve over a small bowl and pour the dressing into it. Using the back of a spoon, push the strawberries through the sieve. This process will help you achieve a smoother consistency, ensuring a delightful dressing.
Once the dressing is prepared, set it aside. Now, grab a large mixing bowl. This is where we’ll bring all the salad ingredients together. Start by adding the 4 cups of baby spinach leaves and 4 cups of arugula into the bowl. These greens will provide a fresh and healthy base for your salad.
Next, add in the 1/2 cup of sliced strawberries. Their sweetness will create a beautiful contrast against the greens. You can also toss in the 1/3 cup of sliced avocado. The creaminess of the avocado pairs so well with the juicy strawberries.
For a pop of color and flavor, add the 1/3 cup of blueberries or blackberries. They add a tangy burst that elevates the overall taste.
Finally, crumble the 1/2 ounce of goat cheese on top of the salad. This cheese adds a delightful salty and creamy element, enhancing the other ingredients.
Before serving, gently toss everything together. This ensures that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly, making every bite flavorful.
Divide the salad into two plates. Drizzle a little more of the dressing on top, if desired, to enhance the flavors even further.
And there you have it! Your Strawberry and Avocado Salad is ready to serve. Enjoy it fresh, and watch your guests be amazed by this beautiful and colorful dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh strawberries and avocados make all the difference in flavor.
Toss gently: When combining the salad, be gentle to avoid bruising the avocado and greens.
Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients to suit your palate.
Seasonal variations: Consider using other fruits like peaches or mangoes for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions and Tips

While this salad is delicious as is, I’ve gathered some tips and substitutions to elevate your experience even further. With a few adjustments, you can make it your own!

Storage: To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate to maintain freshness. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days.
Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the greens.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Variation: Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
Serving Size: This recipe yields two servings, but it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

How to Serve Strawberry and Avocado Salad

Serving a Strawberry and Avocado Salad is all about presentation and creating an enjoyable experience. Here are some great ideas:

As a side dish: This salad makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or fish, adding a refreshing contrast to richer mains.
For brunch: Serve it at brunch alongside quiche or frittata for a vibrant meal option.
Packed lunches: The salad can be packed for lunch. Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Seasonal gatherings: It’s perfect for spring gatherings, picnics, and even holiday celebrations where fresh flavors are appreciated.
Garnish: Consider garnishing with edible flowers for a stunning visual appeal.
Drizzle dressing: Always drizzle some extra dressing just before serving to enhance the flavors.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving. Combining the dressing with the salad too early can make the greens soggy. You can store the salad components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just remember to toss them with the dressing right before serving for the best flavor and texture!

If you’re not a fan of goat cheese or looking for a substitute due to dietary restrictions, you can use feta cheese for a similar tangy flavor. A creamy soft cheese like ricotta can also work well if you want something milder. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese alternatives or simply omit the cheese altogether—this salad is delicious either way!

To store leftovers of your Strawberry and Avocado Salad, it’s important to keep the salad and the dressing separate. This helps maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge and keep the dressing in a separate jar. The salad should stay fresh for up to two days, but it’s best to enjoy it the same day for optimal flavor!

This Strawberry and Avocado Salad can easily be made vegan by omitting the goat cheese. The vibrant flavors of the strawberries, avocados, and greens will shine through without it. You can also add more protein by including beans or chickpeas to make it a more filling option. Enjoy this salad as part of a healthy vegan meal!

Conclusion

The Strawberry and Avocado Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try it for your next gathering or a refreshing lunch. With its simplicity and vibrant ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.