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 is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a colorful addition to any table. Perfect for gatherings, lunch, or even dinner, this salad combines healthy ingredients that pack a punch in flavor. The standout feature is the homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing, which elevates the entire dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Nutrients: This salad incorporates spinach, avocados, and chicken, ensuring you get a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweetness of dried cranberries and honey balances beautifully with the tangy dressing, creating a delightful taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this salad even on your busiest days.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal as a side dish or a main course, it fits perfectly into various meal occasions.
• A Visual Delight: The vibrant colors of fresh ingredients make this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Perfect for emulsifying the dressing to achieve that smooth texture.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all the salad ingredients together without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing avocados and chicken.

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 (Vanilla Extract 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

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, add 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 maximum freshness.

Enjoy your vibrant Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, bursting with flavor!

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

This refreshing salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a light lunch or a vibrant dinner side. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Adding extra grilled chicken on top enhances the protein content, making it a more filling meal.

Serve with Whole Grain Bread

• A slice of whole grain bread on the side complements the salad’s flavors while providing additional fiber.

Include a Fresh Fruit Platter

• A colorful fruit platter can balance the savory elements of the salad and add a sweet touch to your meal.

Offer a Cheese Board

• A small cheese board with assorted cheeses can pair beautifully, providing a contrast to the salad’s textures and flavors.

Add a Glass of Citrus-Infused Water

• Refreshing citrus-infused water can cleanse the palate and enhance the bright flavors of the dish.

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

To truly make this salad shine, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality chicken will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.

• Make Ahead for Flavor: Prepare the dressing in advance to let the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste when served.

• Toast Almonds for Extra Crunch: Toasting sliced almonds before adding them provides an irresistible crunch and enhances their nutty flavor.

• Add Seasonal Variations: Consider incorporating seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches for added sweetness and variety throughout the year.

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

For a complete meal, pair this delightful salad with one of these tasty side dishes. Each option complements its vibrant flavors perfectly.

1. Quinoa Pilaf
   A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs adds protein and fiber while remaining gluten-free.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Assorted roasted vegetables provide earthy flavors that pair well with the freshness of the salad.

3. Couscous Salad
   A cold couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to the spinach salad.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Creamy baked sweet potatoes provide sweetness that balances out the tangy dressing in your salad.

5. Garlic Breadsticks
   Warm garlic breadsticks bring comfort to your meal while being easy to prepare alongside the salad.

6. Vegetable Soup
   A light vegetable soup can be comforting and nutritious, making it a great starter before enjoying the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Overdressing the salad – Too much dressing can overpower the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Using unripe avocados – Unripe avocados can ruin the creamy texture. Always choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
• Neglecting to season chicken properly – A well-seasoned chicken enhances the overall flavor of the salad. Use salt and pepper generously before grilling.
• Using stale nuts or dried fruits – Freshness matters! Check the expiration dates on your nuts and dried fruits for optimal taste and nutrition.
• Preparing too far in advance – Ingredients can wilt or lose their texture if made too early. Prepare just before serving for best results.

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

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the ingredients may become soggy once thawed.

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

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat chicken in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed; avoid heating salad greens.
• Stovetop – Gently reheat chicken in a skillet over low heat, ensuring it stays moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I customize my Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing?

You can add other proteins like grilled turkey or swap almonds for walnuts. Feel free to mix in seasonal fruits like apples or pears!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep all ingredients but store them separately until serving. This keeps everything fresh!

What are some healthy variations of the dressing?

Try substituting honey with agave syrup or using lime juice instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep if stored correctly. Just keep dressing separate until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just a feast for your eyes but also a burst of flavors that complement each other perfectly. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

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• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy a refreshing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing that’s bursting with flavor! Try it today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 lb chicken (grilled)
• 9 oz baby spinach
• 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
• 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing by blending olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt until emulsified. Stir in poppy seeds and refrigerate.
2. In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, spinach, diced avocados, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
4. Serve immediately for maximum freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (314g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use ripe avocados for optimal creaminess. Customize by adding seasonal fruits like strawberries or using walnuts instead of almonds. Make the dressing ahead of time for enhanced flavor.