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Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad

Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad for a Fresh Vegan Treat

Enjoy this vibrant Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad, a nutritious blend of fresh ingredients perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Caramelized Walnuts
  • 1 cup Walnuts Substitute with pecans for a sweeter alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Agave nectar can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Omit for a simpler taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt for a finer taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Adjust to taste or leave out for a milder flavor.
Dressing
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be substituted.
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic Garlic powder can be used instead if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil or another light oil can be used.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Swap for a seasoning blend for variety.
Salad Base
  • 4 cups Spinach Arugula can be a peppery substitute.
  • 1 cup Quinoa Rice can be a gluten-free alternative.
  • 2 cups Strawberries Fresh raspberries or blueberries can be used.
  • 2 medium Avocados Mashed avocado can replace sliced for a different texture.
  • 1/4 cup Hemp Hearts Chia seeds can be used as a substitute.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mason jar
  • Large serving bowls

Method
 

Caramelizing the Walnuts
  1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, combine walnuts, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne. Stir constantly for about 7-10 minutes until the walnuts turn golden brown and become aromatic. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and once done, transfer the caramelized walnuts onto a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely.
Preparing the Dressing
  1. In a mason jar, combine dijon mustard, minced garlic, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well-emulsified and glossy. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you assemble the salad.
Assembling the Salad Base
  1. In large serving bowls, start layering the fresh spinach as the base. Then, add cooked quinoa for a protein-packed texture, followed by plenty of sliced strawberries that provide sweetness and vibrant color. Top this lovely mix with cubed avocado, ensuring its creamy texture shines, and sprinkle with hemp hearts for an extra crunch.
Finishing with Dressing and Walnuts
  1. Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing generously over the salad layers, making sure to coat all the ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the caramelized walnuts across the top to add a delightful crunch and sweetness. This Avocado Strawberry Spinach Salad is now ready to be served.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 350mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 6gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To keep the avocado from browning, add it just before serving.

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