This Spinach & Avocado Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is a refreshing and simple dish that will elevate any summer gathering, whether it’s a barbecue or a casual dinner. With vibrant ingredients like fresh spinach, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed together in a flavorful basil vinaigrette, it’s light, crisp, and packed with nutrients. Serve this salad right before mealtime to keep everything fresh and perfectly dressed, or allow your guests to drizzle the vinaigrette to their own taste.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 12 cups |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1 medium |
| Avocados, sliced | 3 |
| Walnuts (optional) | 1 cup |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Red wine vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh basil, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 175.1 kcal
- Fat Content: 16.5 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2.3 g
- Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
- Sodium Content: 28.8 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 7.4 g
- Fiber Content: 4.3 g
- Sugar Content: 1.6 g
- Protein Content: 2.1 g
Instructions
-
Prepare the Basil Vinaigrette:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the dried basil, red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and sugar. Continue whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved and the vinaigrette is smooth and well combined. -
Add Fresh Basil:
Stir in the freshly chopped basil and set the vinaigrette aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the salad. -
Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, toss the fresh spinach, thinly sliced red onion, and walnuts (if using) until well mixed. The walnuts add a delightful crunch and texture, but can be omitted if you prefer a nut-free option. -
Add the Avocado:
Just before serving, arrange the sliced avocados on top of the salad. This will help prevent the avocado from browning and maintain its fresh, creamy texture. -
Serve:
For best results, drizzle the basil vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side to allow guests to dress their salads as desired. Enjoy this light and delicious salad as a side dish or a standalone meal!
Tips for Success
- Avocado Tip: To prevent the avocado from browning too quickly, toss the slices in a bit of lemon or lime juice before arranging them on the salad.
- Make it a Main Dish: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version that’s perfect as a main course.
- Serve Fresh: Dress the salad right before serving to keep the spinach crisp and avoid wilting.
This easy-to-make Spinach & Avocado Salad with Basil Vinaigrette is ideal for quick preparation, ready in just 15 minutes, and bursting with flavors that will impress your guests at any occasion. Whether you’re planning a summer party or just a quick family meal, this salad is a surefire hit!