STRAWBERRY SUMMER SALAD

I am thrilled to share a delightful recipe that embodies the essence of fresh, healthy, and vibrant eating. Packed with nourishing ingredients, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at your next gathering. Let's dive into the details and savor every bite of this colorful creation!

JUMP TO RECIPE

Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup ripe strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
1/2 ripe avocado, sliced
3/4 cup grilled chicken, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

Instructions

Grilling the Chicken

Begin by preparing the grilled chicken. For a burst of flavor, marinate the chicken using your favorite marinade. This could be a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs or any marinade you adore. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with those delightful flavors.

Once your chicken has absorbed the flavors, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it's cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. The precise cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer if needed – the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Preparing the Salad

While your chicken is grilling to perfection, let's assemble the rest of the salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the following ingredients:

2 cups of fresh spinach - Make sure to wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly. You can also tear them into bite-sized pieces if you prefer.
1 cup of ripe strawberries, sliced - These sweet, juicy strawberries will add a burst of freshness and a touch of natural sweetness to your salad.
1/2 cup of cooked and cooled quinoa - Quinoa brings a nutty flavor and a dose of protein to our salad, making it even more satisfying.
1/2 ripe avocado, thinly sliced - Creamy avocado provides a luscious contrast to the crispness of the greens and the sweetness of the strawberries.
3/4 cup of grilled chicken, thinly sliced - Slice the grilled chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces for easy integration into the salad.
2 tablespoons of Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette - Drizzle this delightful dressing over your salad for a tangy, fruity kick that ties all the elements together.

Toss and Enjoy

Now that you've assembled all the components in the bowl, gently toss everything together. The vibrant colors and textures coming together are a feast for the eyes.

Once your salad is evenly coated with the Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette and all the ingredients are well-distributed, it's time to savor the fruits of your labor. Plate your salad, and you're ready to enjoy this flavorful and nutritious creation.

Optional Toppings

One of the joys of creating your own salads is the ability to customize them to your liking. In our Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Quinoa and Grilled Chicken, we have a delightful base of ingredients, but why not take it a step further and add some optional toppings to elevate the flavor profile? Here are a couple of delectable options to consider:

Feta Cheese

The crumbly and slightly tangy goodness of feta cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries and the creamy avocado. Just a handful of crumbled feta sprinkled over your salad can take it to a whole new level. The salty notes of feta create a beautiful contrast to the other ingredients and add a delightful creaminess.

Goat Cheese

For a more delicate and earthy flavor, consider adding crumbles of goat cheese. Its creamy texture and mild, slightly tangy taste complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the avocado. Goat cheese brings a touch of sophistication to your salad, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add a gourmet twist.

Nuts and Seeds

To introduce some crunch and nuttiness to your salad, you can include a handful of toasted nuts or seeds. Sliced almonds, chopped pecans, or sunflower seeds are all fantastic choices. They not only provide an interesting texture but also bring healthy fats and added depth to each bite.

Red Onion

Thinly sliced red onion can add a hint of sharpness and a pleasant crunch to the salad. If you enjoy a bit of zing in your salads, consider adding a few rings or finely diced red onion for a burst of flavor.

Fresh Herbs

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint can infuse your salad with a burst of herbaceous aroma and flavor. These fragrant herbs harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries and the creamy elements of the salad.

Croutons

For a dose of crunch and a nod to classic salads, add a handful of homemade or store-bought croutons. These seasoned bread bites not only provide texture but also soak up the vinaigrette, making each bite more flavorful.

The beauty of salads lies in their versatility, and these optional toppings are your ticket to personalizing your Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Quinoa and Grilled Chicken to perfection. Whether you prefer the creaminess of cheese, the crunch of nuts and seeds, or the vibrant freshness of herbs, these additions will take your salad to new heights. Feel free to mix and match to create a salad that suits your taste buds and preferences. The possibilities are endless, and the result will always be a delightful and satisfying meal. Enjoy experimenting and savoring every delicious bite!