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 delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even potlucks, this salad shines at any gathering. The combination of flavors from creamy avocados, sweet cranberries, and the zesty orange poppy seed dressing makes it a standout. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The bright and zesty orange poppy seed dressing elevates each bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from spinach and healthy fats from avocados.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip this up in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great as a side dish or a main course with grilled chicken.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this salad impresses.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing requires just a few essential tools that make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Perfect for creating a smooth and creamy dressing that blends all flavors seamlessly.
• Large bowl: Essential for mixing all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps in emulsifying the dressing to achieve the right consistency.

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
• 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

1. Add olive oil, canola oil, orange zest, fresh 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: grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, toasted sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
2. Pour dressing over the salad mixture.
3. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness.

With these straightforward steps, you will enjoy your vibrant Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing in no time!

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

This vibrant salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a lunch date or a family dinner, serving this dish will impress everyone at the table.

For a Light Lunch

• Wrap It Up: Serve the salad in whole wheat wraps for a portable meal option.
• On Toast: Top toasted baguette slices with the salad for a delightful appetizer.

As a Dinner Entrée

• Grilled Chicken Option: Add more grilled chicken on top for a heartier dinner.
• Serve Chilled: Make it ahead of time and serve chilled for a refreshing summer meal.

Perfect for Potlucks

• In Individual Bowls: Portion into small bowls for easy serving at gatherings.
• Garnish with Citrus: Add orange slices on top as an eye-catching garnish when serving.

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

To ensure your salad shines, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh ingredients like ripe avocados and juicy oranges for maximum flavor impact.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more honey based on your taste preference.
• Texture Variety: Include crunchy elements like toasted almonds or seeds to enhance the texture of the dish.
• Marinate Chicken: Marinate your grilled chicken in citrus juice before cooking for extra flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside this salad.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the freshness of the salad.
2. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and complement the flavors nicely.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf can provide additional protein and fiber to your meal.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the savory elements of your main dish.
5. Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm breadsticks with melted cheese offer a comforting side option.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These add crunch and an earthy flavor that works well with the salad’s ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the taste and presentation of your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality chicken for the best results.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a little and add more as needed to ensure every bite is flavorful without being soggy.
• Not balancing flavors: Each ingredient plays a role in flavor. If your salad tastes flat, consider adjusting the acidity or sweetness in your dressing by adding more lemon juice or honey.
• Forgetting about texture: A good salad needs crunch! Don’t skip on toasted almonds or crispy toppings that add texture contrast to the creamy avocado and feta.
• Using a dull knife: A blunt knife can bruise delicate ingredients like avocados. Always use a sharp knife for clean cuts, preserving both flavor and appearance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• item It will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• item Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat for best freshness.

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

• item Freezing is not recommended due to avocado and spinach’s texture changes when thawed.
• item If you must freeze, consider storing just the chicken separately.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken pieces on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat chicken on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Sauté chicken gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

What other proteins can I use in this salad?

You can substitute grilled chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option, ensuring that flavors remain balanced.

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

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, different cheeses like goat cheese, or additional fruits like apples for extra flavor variety.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad makes an excellent meal prep option. Just store components separately until ready to assemble.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients. With its vibrant flavors and nutritious components, it’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Give it a try; you might find yourself making it regularly!

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Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Discover the vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, a perfect blend of flavors that will elevate any meal. This salad features creamy avocados, sweet cranberries, and a zesty orange poppy seed dressing, making it not just delicious but also nutritious. Packed with vitamins from fresh spinach and healthy fats from avocados, this versatile dish is ideal for lunch, dinner, or potlucks. With easy preparation in just 30 minutes, you can impress your family and friends at any gathering. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with grilled chicken for a heartier option, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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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. For 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. In a large bowl, mix grilled chicken, spinach, diced avocados, feta cheese, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture; toss gently until well combined.
4. Serve immediately to enjoy optimal freshness.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg