California Avocado Spinach Salad

California Avocado Spinach Salad Recipe - A Healthy Taste of the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

California Avocado Spinach Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the crispness of fresh spinach. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic spinach salad, which has been a popular dish for decades. The addition of California avocados adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor to the traditional salad.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) fresh spinach, washed and dried thoroughly
5 california avocados, seeded, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp lime or lemon juice
1 cup ripe olives, thinly sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
2 cup mandarin oranges
spinach salad dressing (recipe follows)
spinach salad dressing (2 cup)
0.5 cup red wine vinegar
1 tsp dry leaf tarragon, crushed
1 tsp teaspoon dijon-style mustard
2 cup vegetable oil
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Tear the spinach into bite-size pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
In a medium bowl, generously drizzle lime juice over the avocado cubes before tossing them in the salad to prevent browning and enhance the flavor.
Add the avocados, onions, and oranges to the mixing bowl and toss them together with the salad dressing.
Prepare the dressing.
In a small saucepan, bring the vinegar and tarragon to a boil. Let it cool.
Blend the mustard and vinegar mixture in a deep bowl. Stir well.
Gradually add the oil, beating until well blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Substitute baby kale or arugula for the spinach.
Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before using it in the salad to remove any dirt or grit.

- Drizzling lemon juice over the avocado cubes before adding them to the salad will prevent them from browning and enhance their flavor.

- Toss the avocado, onions, and oranges gently to avoid mashing the avocado cubes.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Toss the salad gently to avoid mashing the avocado cubes.

- Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before using it in the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter flavor.

- Use black olives instead of ripe olives for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

- Cut the avocado cubes and store them in an airtight container with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.

- Serve with a glass of white wine or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Do not freeze the salad as the avocado will become mushy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 9g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 25g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 120%

- Vitamin C: 70%

- Calcium: 15%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

This recipe contains tree nuts (avocado) and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This California Avocado Spinach Salad is a nutrient-rich dish that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

California Avocado Spinach Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. With the creamy texture of avocados and the crispness of fresh spinach, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in California. We had spent the morning exploring the local farmers market, picking up fresh fruits and vegetables to use for our dinner that evening.

As we rummaged through the vibrant displays of produce, Maria suddenly stopped in front of a stand overflowing with ripe avocados. She picked one up and handed it to me, a twinkle in her eye. "Have you ever had California avocado before?" she asked. I shook my head, intrigued. Maria then proceeded to tell me about this delicious and creamy fruit that was a staple in Californian cuisine.

That evening, Maria taught me how to make her signature California Avocado Spinach Salad. She explained that the key to this dish was using ripe avocados and fresh spinach, along with a zesty dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings. As we chopped and mixed ingredients together, I could already feel my taste buds tingling with anticipation.

The salad was a hit that night, with everyone at the table going back for seconds. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with the crisp spinach and tangy dressing. I made sure to jot down the recipe in my trusty recipe book, eager to recreate it at home.

Over the years, I continued to make Maria's California Avocado Spinach Salad for family gatherings and dinner parties. It quickly became a favorite among my loved ones, who would always request it whenever I asked what they wanted me to cook.

As time went on, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist to it. I started incorporating other fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for an extra burst of flavor and crunch. I also played around with the dressing, sometimes swapping out the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar or adding a touch of honey for sweetness.

One day, as I was preparing the salad for a family barbecue, my granddaughter walked into the kitchen, her eyes wide with curiosity. "What are you making, Grandma?" she asked. I smiled and told her about the California Avocado Spinach Salad that had become a staple in our family. She eagerly offered to help me chop the vegetables, her small hands working diligently to mimic my movements.

As we sat down to eat, my granddaughter took her first bite of the salad and her face lit up with delight. "This is delicious, Grandma!" she exclaimed, reaching for another spoonful. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as I watched her enjoy the dish that I had learned to make so many years ago.

As I grew older, I realized that the California Avocado Spinach Salad had become more than just a recipe to me. It was a reminder of the memories I had created with friends and family, the laughter shared around the dinner table, and the joy of passing down a piece of my culinary history to the next generation.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing the salad once again, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this dish. From that fateful day at the farmers market with Maria to the countless dinners shared with loved ones, the California Avocado Spinach Salad has truly become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

And as I take my first bite of the creamy avocado, crisp spinach, and tangy dressing, I am filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude for the recipe that has brought so much joy and connection into my life.