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. Perfect for any occasion, this vibrant salad makes a fantastic centerpiece for lunch or dinner. The standout quality lies in the homemade dressing that elevates the dish, making salad so much more enjoyable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavors: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest, along with poppy seeds, creates a delightful taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach, avocados, and grilled chicken, it’s a wholesome meal that nourishes your body.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or as a side at gatherings; it fits perfectly into any menu.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can whip this up in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other toppings like nuts or seeds to personalize your salad.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, gather your tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Jar for dressing storage
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for mixing the dressing ingredients until they are perfectly emulsified.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all the salad ingredients together without mess.
• Jar for dressing storage: Keeps your homemade dressing fresh in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Ingredients

For the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll need:

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 (alcohol-free)
• 3/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries

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. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, add grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, sliced almonds, and dried cranberries.
2. Pour dressing over salad ingredients.
3. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.

Step 3: Serve Immediately

Serve your delicious salad right away for the best flavor and freshness! Enjoy your delightful creation!

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 casual family dinner or a festive gathering. The vibrant colors and flavors make it visually appealing and satisfying.

For Lunch

• Pair with Whole Grain Bread: Serve the salad with slices of whole grain bread for a filling lunch option.
• Add Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and provide extra nutrients.

As a Dinner Side

• Complement with Roasted Chicken: A simple roasted chicken can round out your meal and echo the salad’s flavors.
• Serve with Quinoa: Quinoa adds a protein boost and makes your meal more hearty.

For Potlucks

• Transport in a Large Bowl: Keep the salad fresh by tossing it just before serving to maintain texture.
• Pair with Finger Foods: Offer it alongside finger foods like vegetable platters or stuffed mushrooms for variety.

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

To elevate your salad experience, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Bold Ingredients: Choose ripe avocados for creaminess and vibrant greens for color.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the overall flavor profile.
• Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping your salad ingredients chilled before assembly enhances freshness.
• Toast Your Nuts: Toast sliced almonds for added crunch and depth of flavor.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If dressing is too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or extra citrus juice.

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

This salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavor profile. Consider these options to create a well-rounded meal.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a delicious contrast to the tangy dressing.
3. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf can offer some heartiness alongside the salad.
4. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick stir-fried seasonal veggies keep things colorful and healthy.
5. Chickpea Fritters: Crispy chickpea fritters are protein-packed and pair well with salads.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers create a refreshing bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the perfect Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Dressing: Many overlook the importance of a good dressing. Always prepare your dressing before assembling the salad for maximum flavor.
• Overdressing the Salad: Using too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed to keep it fresh.
• Using Unripe Avocados: Unripe avocados can ruin your salad’s texture. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
• Neglecting Ingredient Preparation: Not chopping ingredients properly can affect presentation. Ensure everything is evenly sized for a beautiful and balanced salad.
• Forgetting Seasoning: A pinch of salt or pepper can enhance flavors significantly. Don’t skip seasoning your ingredients before mixing them in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

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

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing may affect texture, especially of the avocado.
• If you must freeze, consider omitting the avocado and adding it fresh after thawing.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm chicken separately for a few minutes.
• Microwave: Heat chicken on low power in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Sauté chicken in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad.

What can I substitute for chicken in the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing?

You can use grilled turkey or even sautéed tofu for a vegetarian option while maintaining great flavor.

How do I keep avocados from browning in my salad?

To prevent browning, sprinkle lemon juice on cut avocado pieces immediately after slicing or store them in an airtight container with minimal air exposure.

Can I make the Orange Poppy Seed Dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store each component separately until you’re ready to eat, keeping everything fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not only vibrant and nutritious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, seeds, or seasonal fruits to match your taste preferences. Give it a try; you might find yourself making it regularly!