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 flavors and nutritious ingredients. This versatile salad works great for lunch, dinner, or special occasions. The standout quality of this dish lies in its vibrant colors and the delightful balance between sweet and savory, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, this salad comes together effortlessly.
• Flavorful Dressing: The Orange Poppy Seed dressing brings a unique sweetness that elevates the entire dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with chicken, spinach, avocados, and cranberries, it’s a health-conscious choice.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a light meal or a side dish at gatherings or picnics.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth, emulsified dressing that coats all salad ingredients evenly.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all components without spills.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad:

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, 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. 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 dressing over top.
3. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.

Step 3: Serve

Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness! Enjoy your vibrant Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing as a meal or side dish!

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

This delightful salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor with every bite. Here are some suggestions on how to serve your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing for an unforgettable meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad atop additional baby spinach for extra greens.
• This adds more color and nutrients to your dish.

With Grilled Bread

• Pair the salad with slices of warm, grilled bread.
• The crunch complements the creamy avocado and tender chicken.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide the salad into jars for easy meal prep.
• This makes it convenient for lunches throughout the week.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your salad with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
• This adds an aromatic touch and enhances flavor.

With Additional Protein

• Consider adding boiled eggs or chickpeas if you want extra protein.
• This makes the dish even heartier.

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

To elevate your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, follow these tips for a perfect dish every time.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality chicken for the best taste and texture.
• Chill Your Dressing: Refrigerate the dressing before serving; it enhances flavors and keeps the salad cool.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds brings out their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust honey in the dressing according to your taste preference; some may prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
• Layer Wisely: To prevent sogginess, keep dressing separate until serving if making ahead of time.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Swap dried cranberries for pomegranate seeds or add seasonal fruits for variety.

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

Pairing side dishes can enhance your main event—the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing. Here are some great options that complement this vibrant salad.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread infused with garlic butter pairs perfectly with salads, offering a rich contrast.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber, making for a nutritious side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies brings warmth and depth to your meal.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Light yet filling, cauliflower rice is a healthy option that won’t overpower your salad.
5. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit adds sweetness to balance out savory flavors; think berries or citrus segments!
6. Cheesy Baked Potatoes: These creamy potatoes provide comfort food vibes alongside your refreshing salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the dressing prep: Many people overlook making the dressing first. Always prepare your Orange Poppy Seed dressing ahead of time to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
• Using unripe avocados: Choosing avocados that are not ripe can ruin the salad’s texture. Ensure avocados are soft yet firm when pressed gently.
• Overcooking chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Grill your chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimum juiciness.
• Neglecting to toast almonds: Un-toasted almonds lack flavor. Toast them lightly in a skillet for a few minutes to enhance their nuttiness before adding them to the salad.
• Not tossing ingredients properly: Failing to toss the salad thoroughly means uneven distribution of flavors. Be sure to mix well so every bite is deliciously balanced.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• The salad is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for maximum flavor retention.

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

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado and spinach texture changes after thawing.
• If necessary, freeze only the grilled chicken separately, which can last up to 3 months in an airtight container.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté the chicken for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can customize this salad by adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or trying various nuts such as walnuts instead of almonds.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients ahead, but store the dressing separately until just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What is the best way to make this salad vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, simply omit the chicken. You can add chickpeas or beans for protein instead.

Is there a substitute for poppy seeds?

If you don’t have poppy seeds on hand, you can replace them with sesame seeds or simply omit them without compromising too much on flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not only vibrant but also versatile enough for any meal occasion. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s perfect as a light lunch or as an impressive side dish at gatherings. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand—this salad will surely become a favorite!