Looking for a refreshing salad that bursts with flavor and texture? Dive into the delightful world of our Pear Apple Avocado Spinach Salad! This vibrant dish combines the crispness of fresh spinach with the sweetness of ripe pears and apples, the creaminess of avocado, and the tangy bite of feta cheese. Topped with crunchy candied walnuts and pumpkin seeds, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious powerhouse that will leave your taste buds dancing. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this stunning salad that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a light lunch, a potluck, or a fancy dinner party. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 pear, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup candied walnuts
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water, then gently pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Next, wash the pear and apple. Slice the pear into thin wedges, removing the core. For the apple, slice it into thin wedges as well, keeping the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and carefully scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces and set aside. To prevent browning, you can drizzle a little lemon juice over the avocado if desired.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced pear, sliced apple, and diced avocado. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly without mashing the avocado.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad mixture. This will add a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the fruits and spinach.
- Next, add the candied walnuts and pumpkin seeds to the salad. The candied walnuts will provide a sweet crunch, while the pumpkin seeds add a nutty flavor and additional crunch.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to your taste preference. Gently toss the salad again to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Once everything is well mixed, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper, depending on your preference.
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. This salad is best enjoyed right after preparation.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and slice your fruits and vegetables ahead of time. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- Avocado Care: To prevent your avocado from browning, consider squeezing a little lemon juice over the diced pieces right after cutting. This will keep your salad looking vibrant!
- Customize Your Greens: While spinach is the star here, feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added flavor and nutrients.
- Dressing Variations: If balsamic vinaigrette isn’t your favorite, try a honey mustard dressing or a simple olive oil and lemon juice combo for a different twist.
- Make It a Meal: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this salad into a hearty main dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, so try to assemble it just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the ingredients.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add other toppings like dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
