Spinach & Raspberry Salad with Avocado

There are days when you want something fresh, vibrant, and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen, and this is exactly the salad I reach for. I first made this on a warm afternoon when I needed something light but satisfying, and one bite instantly lifted my mood. The juicy raspberries, creamy avocado, and crisp spinach come together in a way that feels both indulgent and refreshing, giving you a beautiful, feel good meal that fits perfectly into busy days or relaxed lunches.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This salad is the kind of recipe that feels effortless yet special, the kind you crave again and again. Trust me, you’re going to love this, because it balances sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures in every forkful. This one’s a total game-changer when you want something quick, colorful, and nourishing without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by a simple bowl I threw together while cleaning out my fridge, when fresh berries were begging to be used and an avocado was perfectly ripe. It reminded me how the simplest combinations can feel luxurious when you let quality ingredients shine. Since then, it has become my go to salad for moments when I want food that feels light, joyful, and a little bit special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad works because every ingredient plays its part, from the tender greens to the bright bursts of fruit and the buttery richness that ties everything together.

1. Fresh Spinach Leaves: 4 packed cups, tender and vibrant, forming the fresh, leafy base of the salad.
2. Fresh Raspberries: 1 cup, juicy and slightly tart, adding bright pops of color and sweetness.
3. Ripe Avocado: 1 large, sliced, bringing creamy texture and mellow richness.
4. Walnuts: 1 by 2 cup, lightly chopped, adding crunch and a warm, nutty depth.
5. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, smooth and fruity, to gently coat the leaves.
6. Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, brightening the flavors and balancing the richness.
7. Fine Sea Salt: 1 by 4 teaspoon, enhancing all the natural flavors.
8. Black Pepper: 1 by 8 teaspoon, freshly ground, adding subtle warmth.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Special Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need much to make this salad shine, just a few basic kitchen tools.

Large Salad Bowl: Gives you plenty of space to toss everything gently without bruising the ingredients.
Sharp Knife: Essential for cleanly slicing the avocado and chopping the walnuts.
Citrus Juicer: Makes extracting fresh lemon juice quick and easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This salad comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for both everyday meals and last minute guests.

1. Wash and Dry the Spinach: Rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water and dry it well so the dressing clings beautifully to the leaves.
2. Prepare the Avocado: Slice the avocado just before assembling to keep it fresh and creamy.
3. Assemble the Base: Add the spinach to a large bowl and scatter the raspberries evenly over the top.
4. Add the Toppings: Gently nestle the avocado slices among the greens and sprinkle the walnuts throughout.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and black pepper.
6. Toss Gently: Use clean hands or salad tongs to lightly toss until everything is just coated, being careful not to crush the raspberries.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

Serve this salad in a wide, shallow bowl so the vibrant colors really stand out. The deep green spinach, ruby red raspberries, and pale green avocado create a stunning contrast that feels restaurant worthy. Pair it with warm flatbread or a simple soup for a complete meal, or serve it as a bright side dish alongside grilled vegetables or roasted dishes.

Extra Tips for Best Results

A few simple tips can make this salad absolutely perfect every time.

• Use very fresh spinach for the best texture and flavor.
• Add the avocado at the very last moment to keep it looking fresh and creamy.
• Taste and adjust the lemon juice depending on how sweet your raspberries are.

Variations You Can Try

This salad is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to customize.

Try adding thinly sliced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
Swap walnuts for almonds or pistachios if you want a slightly different nutty note.
Add a drizzle of honey if your raspberries are extra tart and you want more sweetness.
Mix in sliced strawberries alongside the raspberries for an even fruitier salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep parts of it ahead of time. Wash and dry the spinach and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the raspberries and walnuts separate, and slice the avocado just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and color.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 320
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use baby spinach instead of regular spinach?

Absolutely. Baby spinach works beautifully and offers an even more tender texture.

2. What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch and flavor.

3. How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Slicing the avocado right before serving and tossing it with lemon juice helps keep it fresh and vibrant.

4. Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, a small amount of crumbled cheese can add richness, but the salad is delicious even without it.

5. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It can be partially prepped, but it’s best assembled just before eating for optimal texture.

6. Can I use frozen raspberries?

Fresh raspberries are best, as frozen ones release too much moisture when thawed.

7. What dressing works best with this salad?

A simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing lets the fresh ingredients shine.

8. Can I make this salad more filling?

Adding cooked grains like quinoa or chickpeas can make it more substantial.

9. Is this salad kid friendly?

Yes, the sweet raspberries and creamy avocado make it very approachable.

10. Can I serve this for guests?

Definitely. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite and always impresses on the table.

Conclusion

This Spinach & Raspberry Salad with Avocado is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s fresh, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, making it a recipe you’ll come back to often. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every colorful, flavorful bite.

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