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 vibrant and flavorful but also a healthy choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a picnic, or simply looking for a nutritious meal, this salad shines with its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing. You’ll find yourself making this delightful dish again and again!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Step 1: Make the Dressing
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
- How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- For a Light Lunch
- As a Dinner Entrée
- For Meal Prep
- How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to prepare chicken for this salad?
- Can I make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing ahead of time?
- What are some good substitutes for poppy seeds?
- How do I customize this Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of chicken, avocado, and cranberries creates a delicious mix of savory and sweet.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With baby spinach and healthy fats from avocados, this salad is both tasty and beneficial for your health.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or side salad; it’s perfect for any meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing in advance for an even quicker assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your culinary adventure, gather the necessary tools to make the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing come together seamlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender
- Large mixing bowl
- Jar (for dressing storage)
- Grilling pan or skillet
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Essential for emulsifying the dressing ingredients into a smooth mixture.
- Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Jar: Perfect for storing leftover dressing while keeping it fresh.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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)
– 1 cup crumbled feta
– 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
– 3/4 cup dried cranberries
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Step 1: Make the Dressing
- Add the following ingredients to your blender:
- Olive oil
- Canola oil
- Orange zest
- Fresh orange juice
- Fresh lemon juice
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Pulse until well emulsified.
- Pour into a jar and stir in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, add all salad ingredients:
- Grilled chicken (sliced)
- Baby spinach
- Diced avocados
- Crumbled feta
- Toasted sliced almonds
- Dried cranberries
- Pour the prepared dressing over the top.
- Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately as a main dish or side salad. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
How to Serve Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
This delightful salad makes for a vibrant and healthy meal option. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just for yourself, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
For a Light Lunch
- Serve it alongside a slice of whole-grain bread for a filling yet light meal.
- Pair with a cup of your favorite soup to add warmth and comfort.
As a Dinner Entrée
- Add grilled shrimp or salmon on top for extra protein and flavor.
- Serve with quinoa or brown rice on the side to make it more substantial.
For Meal Prep
- Pack individual servings in jars for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
- Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
How to Perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
To elevate your salad game, consider these simple tips that will ensure your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is always a hit.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality chicken will significantly enhance flavor.
- Customize the dressing: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness or acidity of the dressing by adding more honey or lemon juice according to your taste.
- Toast almonds lightly: Toasting the sliced almonds brings out their nutty flavor and adds crunch to the salad.
- Add seasonal fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like apples or pears for additional sweetness and texture variation.
Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
Complement your salad with these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with the flavors of Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini add color and nutrition without overpowering the salad.
- Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter can provide a sweet contrast to the savory notes of the salad.
- Cheese Board: Include cheeses like goat cheese or brie which can enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Chickpea Salad: A chickpea salad can add more protein and fiber while complementing the leafy greens.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a hearty side that pairs nicely with chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.
- Using old ingredients: Always check the freshness of your spinach, chicken, and avocados. Fresh ingredients ensure a vibrant salad.
- Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to use too much dressing. Start with a small amount, toss gently, and add more if needed for flavor without sogginess.
- Not balancing flavors: If your salad is too sweet or tart, adjust the dressing by adding more lemon juice or honey until you find the right balance.
- Skipping toasting almonds: Toasting sliced almonds enhances their flavor. Simply sauté them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until golden.
- Cutting avocados too early: Avocados brown quickly once cut. Dice them right before serving to keep your salad looking fresh and appealing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
Freezing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Freezing is not recommended: This salad does not freeze well due to the texture changes in spinach and avocado.
- If you must freeze, consider storing only the chicken separately for later use.
Reheating Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to prepare chicken for this salad?
To make this salad extra delicious, grill or pan-sear chicken breasts seasoned simply with salt and pepper. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Can I make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but add the avocados just before serving to prevent browning.
What are some good substitutes for poppy seeds?
If you can’t find poppy seeds, chia seeds or sesame seeds can be great alternatives that add similar texture without sacrificing flavor.
How do I customize this Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad?
Feel free to add nuts, swap out fruits like apples or pears, or even include other greens like kale for added variety!
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, it’s sure to impress. Try it today and discover how easy it is to enjoy healthy eating!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is a vibrant, nutritious dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken with creamy avocado, sweet dried cranberries, and the crunch of toasted almonds, all tossed in a zesty orange poppy seed dressing. It’s not only quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, but it’s also versatile enough to serve as a main course or a delightful side. Ideal for dinner parties, picnics, or healthy meal prep, this salad will become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 cup crumbled feta
- 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- To make 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 and stir in poppy seeds. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, toasted sliced almonds, and dried cranberries. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently.
- Serve immediately as a main or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
