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 packed with bright flavor and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion, this salad will have your taste buds dancing. The homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing adds a unique twist that makes this dish a standout at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: This salad combines sweet cranberries, creamy avocados, and zesty orange dressing for an explosion of taste.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with spinach and healthy fats from avocados, it’s a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you’ll whip up this salad in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Whether as a main course or a side, it fits perfectly into various meals.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for making ahead of time; just store the dressing separately until serving!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start preparing the salad, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Jar for storing dressing
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the creamy Orange Poppy Seed dressing quickly.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all salad ingredients without spilling.
• Jar for storing dressing: Keeps your homemade dressing fresh until you’re ready to use it.

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: Prepare the Dressing

Add the following ingredients to a blender:
* 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

Pulse until well emulsified. Pour the mixture into a jar and stir in:
* 1 Tbsp poppy seeds

Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, add:
* 9 oz baby spinach
* 1 lb grilled chicken (sliced)
* 2 medium avocados (cored and diced)
* 1 cup crumbled feta
* 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
* 3/4 cup dried cranberries

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour your prepared Orange Poppy Seed dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to evenly coat all components.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your vibrant Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing right away for maximum freshness!

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

This delightful salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a light lunch or a festive dinner. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your experience with this flavorful dish.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

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

Serve in a Mason Jar

• Layer the salad ingredients in a mason jar for an aesthetically pleasing presentation and easy transport for picnics or lunches.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a burst of freshness and make the dish more visually appealing.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve the salad alongside some crusty bread to soak up the delicious Orange Poppy Seed dressing.

Add Extra Nuts

• Sprinkle additional toasted almonds or walnuts on top for added crunch and healthy fats.

Create a Salad Bar

• Set up a salad bar where guests can customize their own bowls by adding extra toppings like seeds, cheese, or different proteins.

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

Perfecting your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all vegetables and fruits are fresh for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to add more honey according to your taste preferences.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the salad for about 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors and makes it refreshing.

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

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its bright flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a classic choice that pairs well with salads, providing a comforting touch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and texture, balancing out the freshness of the salad.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf can serve as a hearty side, adding fiber and protein while remaining wholesome.
4. Fruit Platter: A selection of seasonal fruits can add sweetness and variety to your meal.
5. Hummus & Veggie Sticks: A platter of hummus served with crunchy veggies offers a healthy snacking option.
6. Cheese Board: A simple cheese board with assorted cheeses provides richness that complements the salad’s flavors.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meat create an eye-catching side that’s also nutritious.
8. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed in olive oil can offer additional carbs without overpowering your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that could impact your salad’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the dressing preparation: Not making the dressing ahead of time can lead to bland flavors. Always prepare your Orange Poppy Seed dressing first to allow the flavors to meld.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Grill your chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy results.
• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin the texture of your salad. Choose ripe, creamy avocados for the best results.
• Neglecting to toast almonds: Skipping this step can mean missing out on essential flavor. Toast your sliced almonds to enhance their nuttiness before adding them to the salad.
• Not tossing immediately: Waiting too long to toss the salad after adding the dressing can cause sogginess. Serve right after mixing for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep dressing separate from salad ingredients if possible.

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

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as ingredients like avocado and spinach do not freeze well.
• If you must freeze, consider storing only grilled chicken separately.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add chicken until warmed throughout, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing special?

This salad stands out due to its vibrant combination of textures and flavors—from creamy avocados to tangy cranberries and crunchy almonds—all dressed in a delightful Orange Poppy Seed dressing.

Can I use different greens in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute baby spinach with any leafy green you prefer, such as kale or arugula, for a unique twist.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The total time for preparing the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick meals or gatherings.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare components like the dressing and grilled chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately until you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Omit the grilled chicken and consider adding chickpeas or tofu for protein while keeping all other ingredients intact.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it by adding your favorite nuts, fruits, or proteins. Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it at gatherings; it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

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

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Description

Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is a vibrant, nutritious dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its medley of flavors. This salad combines the sweetness of dried cranberries, the creaminess of ripe avocado, and the crunch of toasted almonds, all beautifully complemented by a zesty homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or special occasions, it’s both satisfying and refreshing. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a main course or side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it as a meal prep option by keeping the dressing separate until serving for maximum freshness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb grilled chicken
• 9 oz baby spinach
• 2 medium avocados
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries
• 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• Homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: Blend olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt until emulsified. Stir in poppy seeds and refrigerate.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, grilled chicken slices, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
3. Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg