Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that's not just a meal, but a gourmet experience! This Strawberry and Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken is the ultimate flavor explosion that will transform your perception of healthy eating. Imagine a vibrant dish where sweet strawberries dance with creamy avocado, crisp spinach provides the perfect green canvas, and tender chicken adds a protein-packed punch. It's not just a salad; it's a culinary masterpiece that promises to make your taste buds sing and your body thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients: fresh spinach, strawberries, avocado, cooked chicken, feta cheese, balsamic vinaigrette, salt, and pepper.
- Rinse the fresh spinach under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water or use a salad spinner to dry the leaves. Place the spinach in a large salad bowl.
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and slice the strawberries into thin pieces. Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl with the spinach.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Slice the avocado into thin wedges. Gently add the avocado slices to the salad bowl.
- Take the cooked chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands. Add the shredded chicken to the salad bowl with the spinach, strawberries, and avocado.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. This will add a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Start with half of the amount and add more to taste, ensuring everything is lightly coated.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt, especially if your feta cheese is salty.
- Gently toss the salad with tongs or salad servers to combine all the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
- Once everything is well mixed, serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in bowls. Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry and Avocado Spinach Salad with Chicken!
Tips
- For the juiciest flavors, use ripe but firm strawberries and avocados.
- If preparing in advance, add avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent browning and sogginess.
- Try grilling the chicken with a light herb seasoning for an extra depth of flavor.
- For a low-carb option, swap balsamic vinaigrette with a homemade olive oil and lemon dressing.
- To keep the salad crisp, serve immediately after tossing and use chilled plates.
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top.
- Choose baby spinach for a more tender leaf texture and milder taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg