I dare say this is one of the best salads you’ll ever eat! The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing combines bright flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or seeking a wholesome meal, this salad stands out with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. The homemade orange poppy seed dressing is a game changer that you may want to make again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes!
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side salad, it fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything comes together perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving utensils
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Ideal for creating the smooth orange poppy seed dressing quickly and efficiently.
- Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all salad ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accuracy in ingredient quantities for balanced flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
For the Salad
- 1 lb chicken (grilled)
- 9 oz baby spinach
- 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
- 1 cup crumbled feta (alcohol-free)
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
How to Make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Add olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt to a blender.
- Pulse until well emulsified.
- Pour the dressing into a jar and stir in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss gently to evenly coat all components.
Step 3: Serve Immediately
Your delicious Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is now ready to enjoy! Serve it fresh for the best flavor experience.
How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Serving the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for any occasion.
For a Light Lunch
- Serve it in a bowl alongside a slice of whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.
- Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to complement the salad’s flavors.
As a Main Course
- Add grilled shrimp or turkey for extra protein and variety.
- Serve on a bed of quinoa to create a hearty and nutritious meal.
For Parties or Gatherings
- Present in a large, decorative bowl for sharing, allowing guests to serve themselves.
- Offer additional toppings like toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Accompany with grilled seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the veggies to enhance the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
To ensure your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality chicken will elevate your salad’s taste.
- Make the dressing ahead: Prepare the orange poppy seed dressing in advance; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Toast almonds before adding: Toasted almonds add an extra layer of flavor and crunch that enhances the salad experience.
- Balance flavors: Adjust honey or lemon juice in the dressing based on your sweetness preference; taste as you go!
- Serve immediately: To maintain freshness, serve the salad right after tossing it with the dressing.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Complementing your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great side dishes that pair well.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread adds a savory touch that pairs wonderfully with this fresh salad.
- Vegetable Soup: A light vegetable soup can provide warmth and comfort alongside the crispness of the salad.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A flavorful quinoa pilaf brings protein and texture while staying healthy and light.
- Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to the savory notes of the salad.
- Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad can be seasoned with herbs for an aromatic side dish option.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains make for an attractive side that’s filling yet healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, keep these common mistakes in mind.
- Skipping the dressing: Forgetting to prepare the dressing in advance can leave your salad bland. Always make the dressing first to allow it time to chill and meld flavors.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Grill until just cooked through for juicy, flavorful pieces.
- Not using ripe avocados: Using unripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose avocados that yield slightly to pressure for perfect creaminess.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted spinach or old nuts can compromise taste and nutrition. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Tossing too hard: Aggressively tossing the salad can bruise delicate ingredients, especially avocados. Gently mix to keep everything intact.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Freezing is not recommended due to avocado and spinach’s texture changes upon thawing.
Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place salad in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes on medium power, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing special?
This salad combines vibrant flavors from fresh ingredients, creating a nourishing meal packed with nutrients.
Can I customize my Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or other proteins like turkey or beef for added flavor and texture.
How can I store leftovers of my Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the dressing separate until serving.
What’s a good substitute for poppy seeds?
If you don’t have poppy seeds, you could use sesame seeds or sunflower seeds as a tasty alternative.
Final Thoughts
The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite nuts or swapping proteins based on your preferences. Try making this salad today; its bright flavors are sure to impress!
Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing. This delightful dish combines fresh spinach, creamy avocado, and juicy grilled chicken, all tossed in a homemade orange poppy seed dressing that elevates the entire experience. Perfect for lunches, dinner parties, or as a meal prep option, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. With its colorful presentation and delicious taste, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb grilled chicken
- 9 oz baby spinach
- 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by blending olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt until emulsified. Stir in poppy seeds and refrigerate.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
