This colorful salad features juicy strawberries, bright oranges, crispy spinach, and tender chicken, making it a fresh and healthy choice. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
I love how the sweet fruit balances with the savory chicken. It’s like a party in a bowl! Don’t forget to add your favorite dressing for an extra kick! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star here, bringing a vibrant green base to the salad. If you can’t find spinach, try baby kale or mixed greens for a different twist!
Strawberries: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, any other berries like blueberries or raspberries work well too.
Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarins are convenient, but you could swap them for fresh orange segments or even grapefruit for a tangy twist.
Chicken: I recommend using grilled or rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu cubes can replace it nicely.
Dried Cranberries: These add a chewy sweetness. You can substitute them with raisins or chopped dried apricots if you prefer!
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a creamy, salty kick. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled avocado or skip cheese entirely.
Almonds: They add crunch! Use walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds if you have a nut allergy.
How Do I Toss a Salad Without Wilting the Greens?
Tossing the salad is important, but it can be tricky to keep those delicate greens intact. Here’s how to do it gently:
- Start by layering your spinach first, creating a stable base.
- Add the fruits, chicken, and toppings in a way that won’t overwhelm the spinach.
- Use a large spoon or tongs to lift ingredients from the bottom and bring them up, letting them fall back down gently.
- Drizzle your vinaigrette on top before tossing, and always handle the bowl with care to avoid bruising.
The key is to be gentle and let everything mix naturally without rough handling!
How to Make Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, cubed or sliced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (or other nuts, such as walnuts)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette dressing (or your favorite salad dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect option for a light meal or a side dish when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by taking a large salad bowl and placing the fresh spinach leaves at the bottom. This will be the base layer of your salad, so arrange them nicely for a beautiful presentation.
2. Add the Fruits:
Next, arrange the sliced strawberries and drained mandarin oranges evenly over the spinach. This adds a lovely pop of color and sweetness to your salad!
3. Layer the Chicken:
Now, add the cubed or sliced cooked chicken on top of the fruit layer. This will make your salad hearty and satisfying.
4. Sprinkle the Extras:
It’s time to sprinkle the dried cranberries and sliced almonds (or your choice of nuts) over the salad. If you’re using feta cheese, add that now as well. For a little kick of flavor, you can also add the thinly sliced red onion at this stage.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing (or your favorite dressing) over everything. Then, season with a touch of salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
6. Toss Gently:
Using salad tongs, gently toss the salad to mix all the ingredients. Be careful not to crush the spinach or fruit as you combine everything; we want to keep it fresh and inviting!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your delicious Strawberry Orange Spinach Salad with Chicken is ready to be served! Enjoy it as a refreshing meal or a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Different Greens Instead of Spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap spinach for other greens like kale, arugula, or mixed salad greens. If using kale, massage the leaves a bit to soften them and bring out their flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use grilled tofu, chickpeas, or even tempeh instead of chicken. Just make sure to season the substitution well to enhance the flavors!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate to maintain freshness. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time! Chop the veggies, slice the fruits, and cook the chicken in advance. Just mix everything and add the dressing on the day you plan to serve it to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
