This Fresh Strawberry Avocado Salad is a burst of color and flavor! Juicy strawberries and creamy avocados come together with a sprinkle of crunchy nuts for that perfect crunch.
I love to enjoy this salad on warm days; it’s light and refreshing. Plus, it looks so pretty on the table that you’ll want to take a picture before digging in! 📸🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach gives a great texture. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for mixed greens, kale, or arugula for a peppery kick.
Strawberries: While fresh strawberries are ideal for their sweetness, you could use other berries like blueberries or raspberries if strawberries aren’t available.
Avocado: Use a ripe avocado to get that creamy texture. If you’re allergic or don’t like avocado, consider using sliced apples or pears for a different flavor.
Pecans: These add a nice crunch, but walnuts or almonds work well too. If you want a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Quinoa: This is optional but adds heartiness. If you don’t have quinoa, cooked farro or barley can provide a similar chewy texture.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing?
The dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together. Start with whisking olive oil, vinegar, honey, and mustard in a bowl until everything is combined. The trick is to taste it as you go; you can adjust the sweetness or acidity based on your preference.
- Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a bit of Greek yogurt.
- Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to a week, giving it a shake before using!
Fresh Strawberry Avocado Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves (or mixed salad greens)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup cooked quinoa (optional for added texture)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Fresh Strawberry Avocado Salad will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a refreshing lunch or dinner side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or white balsamic vinegar), honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is well mixed and slightly thickened. Set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Greens:
Rinse the baby spinach or salad greens under cold water and use a salad spinner or paper towels to dry them. Find a large salad bowl and add the greens as the base for your salad.
3. Mix in the Fresh Ingredients:
Slice the strawberries, avocado, and cucumber, then carefully add them to the bowl with the greens. If you’re using quinoa, sprinkle it on top along with the chopped pecans for a nice crunch.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad. You can add most of it first, then toss gently to coat all the ingredients. If you want to keep some dressing for later, feel free!
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you’re using fresh cilantro, sprinkle some leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this deliciously fresh and healthy strawberry avocado salad. Perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Fresh Strawberry Avocado Salad
Can I Use Different Greens for This Salad?
Absolutely! While baby spinach is delicious, you can substitute it with mixed greens, kale, or arugula for a different flavor and texture experience. Just select your favorite greens!
How Can I Keep Avocado from Browning?
To prevent the avocado from browning, you can toss it with a little lemon or lime juice right after cutting. If you’re preparing the salad ahead, add the avocado just before serving for the best color and taste.
What Other Nuts Can I Use Instead of Pecans?
If you prefer different nuts, walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios would work wonderfully in this salad. Just make sure to chop them roughly for the best texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
It’s best to store the salad components separately to keep everything fresh. You can store leftover greens, chopped fruits, and dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the salad again just before serving.
