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 picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner, this salad stands out with its vibrant colors and delightful taste. You’ll likely find yourself making this Orange Poppy Seed dressing on repeat. Who knew salad could be so good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: This salad combines sweet cranberries, creamy avocado, and zesty orange poppy seed dressing for an unforgettable taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this dish is as good for you as it is delicious.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great as a main course or side dish, you can serve it on various occasions.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make the dressing ahead of time and enjoy a fresh salad throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items that will help you create this delicious salad effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Salad tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: This tool ensures that your dressing is perfectly emulsified for a smooth consistency.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to toss all your ingredients together without any mess.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing:

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.
4. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
3. Toss gently to evenly coat all components.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This delightful Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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

This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for various occasions, from casual lunches to festive gatherings. Here are some great ways to serve this delightful dish.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personal touch. This presentation makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own portion.

Family Style

• Place the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table. Let everyone help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

With Grilled Bread

• Pair the salad with slices of grilled bread or artisan rolls. The crunch complements the creamy avocado and adds texture.

As a Side Dish

• Use this salad as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or fish. It’s a refreshing contrast that enhances any main course.

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

To elevate your salad game, consider these helpful tips for making the best Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and high-quality chicken make all the difference in taste.
• Customize Your Protein: Feel free to swap grilled chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate additional nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta to find your favorite combination.

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

If you’re looking to complement your Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, consider these delicious side dishes. They pair beautifully and enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender adds smoky flavor.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs provides a nutritious and filling side option.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy offer a sweet contrast to the tangy dressing.
4. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a hit, perfect for scooping up any leftover salad dressing.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of savory flavors.
6. Cheese Platter: Include an assortment of cheeses alongside crackers for an elegant appetizer choice.

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 common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is perfect every time.

• Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can drown the flavors of the ingredients. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
• Using unripe avocados: Unripe avocados can be hard and tasteless. Always choose ripe avocados for the best texture and flavor.
• Skipping the toast on almonds: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference!
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into hot chicken right away can dry it out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Using stale or dry cranberries: Fresh, plump dried cranberries provide sweetness and moisture. Check their quality before using them in your salad.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for best freshness.

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

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to avocado and fresh greens.
• If you have leftover dressing, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and heat chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing?

Yes! You can add nuts, swap out proteins, or include other fruits like apples or pears for extra flavor.

What are some good substitutes for poppy seeds in the dressing?

You can use sesame seeds or sunflower seeds if you don’t have poppy seeds on hand.

How should I store leftovers of Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but keep the dressing separate for best results.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare this salad fresh. However, you can prep ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch or a hearty side dish at dinner, this salad fits perfectly. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!

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Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing. This salad is a perfect blend of sweet cranberries, creamy avocado, and juicy grilled chicken, all tossed together with a zesty orange poppy seed dressing. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch, hosting a picnic, or serving it as a side at dinner, this salad not only pleases the palate but also adds a splash of color to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb grilled chicken
• 9 oz baby spinach
• 2 medium avocados (cored and 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. Prepare the dressing by blending olive oil, canola oil, orange zest and juice, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, and salt until emulsified.
2. Stir in poppy seeds and refrigerate.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
4. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 60mg