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 a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party. With its balance of flavors and textures, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch. Plus, the homemade Orange Poppy Seed dressing will likely become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cranberries, creamy avocado, and zesty orange makes every bite delightful.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad supports a balanced diet.
• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or side dish, you can serve it at any meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dressing in advance to save time when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To create this beautiful salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for mixing the dressing smoothly and evenly. A good blender ensures all ingredients are well combined.
• Large bowl: Provides ample space for tossing the salad without making a mess. It allows you to mix everything thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dressing.

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 (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, 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, combine all salad ingredients: grilled chicken, baby spinach, diced avocados, crumbled feta, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
2. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad.
3. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.

Step 3: Serve Immediately

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

Enjoy this colorful salad that brings together a medley of flavors sure to impress everyone at your table!

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 casual family dinner or a special gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the dressing or enjoying alongside the salad.
• Garlic Bread – A buttery garlic bread complements the flavors of the salad beautifully.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Chicken Thighs – For an extra protein kick, serve additional grilled chicken thighs on the side.
• Chickpeas – Toss in some roasted chickpeas for a plant-based protein option and added crunch.

Enhance with Cheese

• Feta Cheese – Crumble extra feta cheese on top to amplify the creamy texture and salty flavor.
• Goat Cheese – Substitute feta with goat cheese for a different tangy taste that pairs well with the sweetness of cranberries.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley over the salad to add color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves – Add whole basil leaves for a fragrant touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

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

To make this salad truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Bold Flavor Balance: Aim for a balance between sweet, savory, and tangy elements by adjusting honey and lemon juice levels to suit your taste.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest avocados and spinach you can find to ensure optimal taste and texture.
• Dress Just Before Serving: To keep your salad crisp, dress it right before serving rather than letting it sit in the dressing for too long.
• Toast Almonds Lightly: Toasting almonds enhances their flavor; do this in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown.
• Experiment with Fruits: Try adding seasonal fruits like strawberries or mandarin oranges for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cool Your Chicken Properly: Allow grilled chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.

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

Pairing side dishes with this delightful salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Quinoa Pilaf – A fluffy quinoa pilaf adds a nutty flavor while being rich in protein.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance the meal’s nutrition and add more color to your table.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast that complements the salad nicely.
4. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are always comforting and pair well with the chicken in your salad.
5. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers refreshing sweetness that balances out savory elements of the meal.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad – This simple side provides crunch and hydration, making it a perfect complement to your richer salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing 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 turns out perfect every time.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can ruin the freshness of your salad. Always choose fresh spinach, ripe avocados, and quality chicken for the best flavor.

• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a little and add more as needed to achieve the desired taste.

• Neglecting to Toast Nuts: Toasting the sliced almonds enhances their flavor and crunch. Always toast nuts in a dry skillet before adding them to your salad.

• Not Balancing Flavors: Ensure you balance sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in your salad. Adjust ingredients like honey or lemon juice to suit your palate.

• Cutting Avocados Too Early: To prevent browning, only cut avocados just before serving. This keeps them fresh and visually appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

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

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad due to avocado and spinach texture changes.
• If freezing, store chicken separately for better results.

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

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes while keeping the salad covered.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan until heated through, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Feel free to explore these common questions regarding the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing.

Can I use different nuts in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute sliced almonds with walnuts or pecans based on your preference.

How do I make this salad vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing, omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu for protein.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

While the Orange Poppy Seed dressing is delicious, balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon tahini dressing also pairs beautifully.

How do I keep my avocados from browning?

To keep avocados fresh, sprinkle them with lemon juice right after cutting them or store them with the pit in until serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken and Orange Poppy Seed Dressing is not only tasty but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal fruits or different proteins. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress!