Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad

Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the sweet tanginess of strawberries, all brought together with a rich Bordeaux salad mix. This salad is perfect for those who appreciate a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The addition of herbed chèvre and toasted almonds adds depth and complexity to the flavors, making it a sophisticated choice for any meal.

History

The Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad is a modern creation that draws inspiration from the culinary traditions of California and the Bordeaux region of France. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients reflects California's abundant produce, while the Bordeaux salad mix and herbed chèvre pay homage to French gastronomy. This fusion of flavors and traditions has resulted in a unique dish that celebrates the best of both worlds.

Ingredients

1 x 5 oz (142 g) package of Ready Pac Bordeaux Salad mix
2 ripe california avocados, peeled, pitted, and cubed
1 pt (473 ml) of fresh California strawberries, hulled and halved lengthwise
0.33 cup of avocado, grape seed oil, or canola oil
0.33 cup of red wine vinegar
coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 x 4-5 oz (142 g) log of herbed soft chèvre, sliced into discs
0.25 cup of toasted California almonds, coarsely chopped

How to prepare

In a glass salad bowl, gently toss together the bordeaux salad mix, cubed avocados, and strawberries with the oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Stud the mixture with the chèvre and sprinkle with the almonds.
Serve the salad cool.

Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the chèvre with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a vegan-friendly dressing. To add more protein, consider topping the salad with grilled shrimp or chicken.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and presentation for your Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushiness in the salad.

- Gently toss the ingredients to keep the integrity of the fruits and salad mix.

- Toast the almonds just before serving to enhance their crunchiness and flavor.

- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is best served chilled, making it an excellent choice for warm weather meals. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a crisp white wine for a complete dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing this salad is the gentle tossing of ingredients to ensure even distribution of the dressing without crushing the fruits and greens.

Ingredient Substitutions

If herbed chèvre is not available, feta cheese can be a suitable substitute. For a nut-free version, roasted sunflower seeds can replace the almonds.

Make Ahead Tips

The salad can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance, with the dressing added just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the greens from wilting.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Garnish with a few whole strawberries and avocado slices for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir, complementing the flavors of the salad without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

It is best to consume the salad fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. This salad is not suitable for freezing or reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad contains approximately 300 calories, making it a nutritious and balanced option for a meal or substantial side dish.

Carbohydrates

This salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the strawberries and avocados. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 15 grams, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad is rich in healthy fats, primarily from the avocados and almonds. These ingredients contribute monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The total fat content per serving is around 22 grams.

Proteins

With the addition of herbed chèvre, this salad provides a moderate amount of protein. The total protein content per serving is approximately 7 grams, making it a light yet satisfying option.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the strawberries, Vitamin E from the avocados, and calcium from the chèvre. It also provides a good amount of dietary fiber and antioxidants.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this salad are tree nuts (almonds) and dairy (chèvre). Those with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad is a nutritious dish that balances healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Summary

The Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With its nutritious ingredients and elegant presentation, it is sure to impress both the palate and the eyes. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this salad is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients brought together in a harmonious and delicious way.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a warm summer day, the kind that makes you want to spend hours in the kitchen creating something delicious. I had just returned from a trip to Bordeaux, France, where I had tasted the most incredible avocado salad at a charming little bistro.

The combination of creamy avocado, sweet berries, and tangy vinaigrette was a revelation to me. I knew I had to recreate it at home. So, armed with nothing but my memories and a few key ingredients, I set to work.

I started by slicing open a ripe avocado and carefully scooping out the flesh. I then diced it into bite-sized pieces and placed it in a large mixing bowl. The avocado was perfectly ripe, with just the right amount of creaminess.

Next, I added a handful of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries to the bowl. The vibrant colors of the berries against the green avocado were a sight to behold. I could already tell that this salad was going to be a showstopper.

For the vinaigrette, I whisked together some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The sweet and tangy flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dressing that would perfectly complement the richness of the avocado and the sweetness of the berries.

I poured the vinaigrette over the avocado and berries, gently tossing everything together to ensure that each piece was coated in the delicious dressing. The salad was coming together beautifully, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

I scooped a generous portion of the Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad onto a plate and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the creaminess of the avocado, the sweetness of the berries, and the tanginess of the vinaigrette all worked together in perfect harmony. It was even better than I remembered from that charming bistro in Bordeaux.

I knew that this recipe was something special, something that I had to share with my friends and family. So, I wrote it down in my trusty recipe book, adding a note about my inspiration from that sunny day in France.

Over the years, I've made this Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad countless times, each time bringing a little piece of Bordeaux into my kitchen. It has become a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties, always eliciting oohs and aahs from my guests.

I often think back to that warm summer day when I first discovered this recipe, and I feel grateful for the experiences and memories that have shaped my culinary journey. Cooking has always been a source of joy and creativity for me, and this salad is a perfect example of how a simple dish can bring so much pleasure.

As I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of fresh herbs and spices, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to the world around us. And I am grateful for the opportunity to share this Bordeaux Berried Avocado Salad with all those who come through my door, spreading a little bit of joy with each bite.