Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad

Name: Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados, diced; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad, especially during the warm months. The combination of ripe avocados and fresh strawberries creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Tossing these vibrant ingredients with a touch of citrus dressing enhances their natural sweetness while adding a refreshing twist. This salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for any table. I often serve it at gatherings, and it's always a crowd-pleaser, perfectly complementing various dishes.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-13T13:35:30.150Z

Creating this Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad was a delightful experiment in flavor and texture. I was inspired by the abundance of fresh strawberries at my local market, and I decided to pair them with creamy avocado for a unique twist. The result was not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. I added a citrus vinaigrette to elevate the freshness, and I couldn’t believe how well the flavors complemented each other!

One of my favorite tips is to use avocados that are just ripe. If they are too soft, they might get mushy when mixed with the strawberries. I also recommend adding some chopped nuts for a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the avocado. It’s a refreshing dish that truly celebrates the simple beauty of fresh ingredients.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        The creamy richness of avocado balances the sweetness of strawberries.
A bright citrus vinaigrette ties all the flavors together beautifully.
It's a quick and easy dish that feels gourmet with minimal effort.

      

The Balance of Flavors

The interplay between creamy avocado and sweet strawberries is the star of this salad. Avocados lend a rich, buttery texture, which pairs harmoniously with the juicy burst of fresh strawberries. When selecting avocados, aim for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. This balance not only pleases the palate but also adds a delightful contrast in texture, making each bite a delightful experience.

The inclusion of baby spinach or mixed greens not only enhances nutritional value but also adds vibrant color. Greens add a peppery note that complements the sweetness of the fruit, ensuring that every forkful is well-rounded. Experimenting with different greens like arugula or kale can introduce varying flavors and textures too!

Vinaigrette Secrets

A good vinaigrette can elevate a salad from ordinary to extraordinary, and this citrus dressing does just that. The acidity from the lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the avocado while enhancing the strawberries' natural sweetness. Make sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly until emulsified; you want a smooth consistency that coats the salad ingredients evenly.

For a twist, consider adding freshly chopped herbs like basil or mint to the vinaigrette. These herbs not only provide an aromatic quality but also bring additional layers of flavor that pair beautifully with both strawberries and avocado. You can also substitute lime juice for lemon for a zesty variation!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, diced
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Citrus Vinaigrette

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, sliced strawberries, baby spinach, and red onion. If using walnuts, add them to the bowl as well.

Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and honey until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss the Salad

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring the avocados and strawberries are well coated without smashing them.

Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving platter and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating goat cheese or feta into the salad. Also, if you want extra zing, add some lime juice alongside the lemon in the vinaigrette.

Storing Leftovers

To safely store leftover Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad, keep the salad and vinaigrette separate. Avocados can brown quickly when exposed to air, so store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to prolong the life of the avocados, you might add a splash of lemon juice to the cut avocado pieces to slow the oxidation process.

If you find the salad becomes soggy after storage, try refreshing it with a drizzle of fresh vinaigrette before serving. This will invigorate the flavors and help restore some of the original texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Strawberry Avocado Salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. It complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully, adding a refreshing element to protein-heavy meals. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside stuffed bell peppers or quinoa bowls.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding protein to the salad itself, such as feta cheese or grilled shrimp, to transform it into a more substantial meal. Either way, this salad's vibrant colors and flavors will undoubtedly make it a highlight of your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the avocado separate to prevent browning.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup for a vegan option or agave nectar as an alternative sweetener.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the avocados may brown.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would make great additions for a heartier version.