Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

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 vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a nutritious lunch, this salad will surely impress. The unique Orange Poppy Seed dressing adds a delightful twist that elevates each bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Flavors: The combination of oranges, avocados, and cranberries creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish, it can easily be adjusted to suit various tastes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its colorful presentation and delicious dressing make it a standout at any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment streamlines the cooking process and ensures everything comes together seamlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large Bowl
• Jar for Storage
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the smooth and creamy Orange Poppy Seed dressing.
• Large Bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all salad ingredients without making a mess.
• Jar for Storage: Ideal for keeping leftover dressing fresh in the fridge.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to slice avocados and other ingredients quickly.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create your flavorful salad:

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
• 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

1. Add olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt to a blender.
2. Pulse until well emulsified.
3. Pour into a jar and stir in poppy seeds.
4. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients including grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the top.
3. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
4. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.

This recipe guarantees satisfaction with its delightful mix of textures and flavors! Enjoy every bite of your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing!

How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Serving this Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful experience. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an eye-catching dish for any occasion.

For Lunch or Dinner

• A light meal: This salad is perfect as a standalone lunch or dinner option, offering a balance of protein and healthy fats.
• Pair with grilled bread: Serve alongside toasted sourdough or whole-grain bread for added texture and satisfaction.

As an Appetizer

• Small portions: Serve in smaller bowls as an appetizer before a main course, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors without being too full.
• Garnish with herbs: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color.

At Picnics or Potlucks

• Portable option: Pack the salad in a sealed container, making it easy to transport to gatherings.
• Dress right before serving: Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and crunch.

For Meal Prep

• Pre-assemble ingredients: Store the salad components separately for quick assembly throughout the week.
• Use airtight containers: Keep everything fresh by using airtight containers for each ingredient.

How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

Making this salad even better is simple with a few expert tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Choose ripe avocados: Select avocados that yield slightly when pressed. This ensures your salad has creamy, flavorful pieces.
• Grill chicken properly: Ensure the chicken is grilled until fully cooked, adding smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach, lemons, and oranges. Fresh produce provides maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Mix textures: Incorporate various textures by adding crunchy almonds and chewy cranberries, making each bite interesting.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness in your dressing, reduce honey slightly or increase lemon juice for a tangy balance.
• Chill the dressing: Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

This salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A hearty option that adds protein and fiber; consider seasoning it with herbs for extra flavor.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances well against the tangy dressing in your salad; just toss them in olive oil and roast until tender.
3. Garlic Bread: A crispy side that adds crunch; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra dressing left on your plate.
4. Vegetable Soup: A warm soup can be soothing alongside the fresh salad; choose a light broth-based variety for balance.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing contrast; use a vinegar-based dressing for added zing.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit medley can cleanse the palate; mix seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and kiwi for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing a salad, but avoiding them can elevate your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Using stale ingredients: Always use fresh spinach and ripe avocados. Poor quality ingredients can ruin the texture and flavor of your salad.
• Overdressing: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the right balance.
• Not seasoning properly: Forgetting salt can lead to bland flavors. Season your salad lightly to enhance the overall taste, especially with the dressing.
• Skipping marination: If you’re using grilled chicken, marinate it beforehand. This adds depth to the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
• Cutting avocados too early: Avocados brown quickly after cutting. Dice them just before serving for optimal freshness and appearance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.

Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes.
• If you must freeze, store chicken separately; it can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 10-15 minutes, covered.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat chicken in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat; add chicken slices and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all components separately and combine them just before serving for maximum freshness.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can easily replace chicken with grilled turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option that still packs protein.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, keeping the dressing separate.

Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out almonds for walnuts or pecans based on your preference or allergies.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding seasonal fruits or switching proteins based on what you have on hand. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a main or side, and bring a delightful burst of flavors to your table!

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Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant and nutritious Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing! This delightful dish brings together fresh baby spinach, creamy avocados, juicy grilled chicken, and sweet dried cranberries, all drizzled with a zesty orange poppy seed dressing. It’s the perfect choice for a light lunch or as a standout side at your next gathering. With its colorful presentation and refreshing flavors, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb grilled chicken
• 9 oz baby spinach
• 2 medium avocados (diced)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 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

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Instructions

1. To prepare the dressing, combine olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt in a blender. Blend until emulsified.
2. Pour the dressing into a jar and mix in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken slices, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
4. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 55mg