Description
This vibrant Raspberry-Spinach Salad with Avocado and Walnuts combines fresh, juicy raspberries with creamy avocado and crunchy toasted walnuts, tossed in a tangy citrus dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that is both nutritious and visually appealing.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Salad
- 1 (6-ounce) package raspberries
- 1 (5-ounce) package baby spinach
- 1 medium avocado, chopped
- 1 medium orange, divided
- 3/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
For the Dressing
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest of 1/2 orange
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare the orange: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest one orange to get ½ teaspoon zest. Then, juice the same orange to measure 2 tablespoons juice. Set aside.
- Make the citrus dressing: In a large bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, 1½ tablespoons lemon juice, chopped shallot, Dijon mustard, and salt. Whisk together until well blended. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Toast the walnuts: Place walnuts in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until fragrant and browned, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare the salad: Add the chopped avocado, raspberries, spinach, and orange segments (segmented by peeling and breaking apart) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat evenly.
- Add the walnuts: Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad before serving for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour for a chilled salad. Shake or whisk the dressing before serving if kept in the fridge.
Notes
- Prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using.
- Toast the walnuts ahead of time and keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For added sweetness or tartness, adjust the amount of orange juice to taste.
- Suitable for a quick and light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups (about 250g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 146mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
