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Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans

strawberry avocado spinach salad - featured image
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This vibrant salad combines sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy homemade candied pecans over a bed of baby spinach, all tossed with a tangy honey-balsamic vinaigrette. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, from weekday lunches to festive brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups (about 6 oz) fresh baby spinach
  • 1 pint (about 2 cups) strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1–2 ripe avocados, sliced
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
  • 1/2 cup pecan halves
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Candy the Pecans: Place pecan halves in a dry medium skillet over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until sugar melts and coats pecans (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and spread on parchment to cool.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper until smooth and slightly thickened. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  3. Prep the Salad Ingredients: Rinse and dry spinach. Hull and slice strawberries. Slice avocado and brush lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning. Thinly slice red onion. Crumble goat cheese or feta if using.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, layer spinach, strawberries, avocado, and red onion. Add most of the candied pecans and cheese, reserving some for garnish. Drizzle with most of the dressing.
  5. Toss and Serve: Gently toss salad with clean hands or salad tongs, being careful not to mash the avocado. Top with reserved pecans and cheese. Add a final drizzle of dressing if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting. Candy the pecans ahead of time and store in an airtight container. Swap strawberries for blueberries or peaches if desired. For vegan, use maple syrup and omit cheese or use a vegan alternative. For nut-free, substitute toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry spinach salad, avocado salad, candied pecans, summer salad, healthy salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy salad, potluck salad, brunch salad

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/strawberry-avocado-spinach-salad-easy-homemade-recipe-with-candied-pecans/