This vibrant, nutrient-packed salad combines sweet potatoes, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, topped with a creamy avocado dressing. It’s perfect as a light meal, healthy side dish, or refreshing appetizer.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
For the Salad Dressing:
- 30g (1 oz) walnuts
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cloves garlic
- 10 ml (2 tsp) apple cider vinegar
- 20 ml (4 tsp) olive oil
- 50 ml (3.5 tbsp) water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 small bunch parsley
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato
- Peel and dice the sweet potato into bite-sized cubes.
- Boil or steam for 10-15 minutes until tender, then let cool.
- For extra flavor, roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
- Finely chop the chives and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Rinse and drain the fresh spinach leaves.
- Step 3: Prepare the Salad Dressing
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Parsley, walnuts, avocado, garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, water, and salt.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sweet potato, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and chives.
- Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Transfer the salad to individual serving bowls.
- Serve fresh and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
✔ Serve with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a protein boost.
✔ Pair with quinoa, brown rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
✔ Add pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
✔ Enjoy as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or lunch meal prep.
Cooking Tips
✔ Roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling for extra caramelization.
✔ Massage the spinach with a little lemon juice or olive oil for better texture.
✔ Use lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a slightly different tangy flavor.
✔ Make it ahead: The dressing can be made 1-2 days in advance.
Nutritional Benefits
✔ Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
✔ Spinach provides iron, calcium, and vitamin K for bone health.
✔ Avocado offers healthy fats that support heart health.
✔ Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids that boost brain function.
Dietary Information
✔ Vegan
✔ Gluten-Free
✔ Dairy-Free
✔ Low-Carb Option – Reduce sweet potatoes slightly.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fats: 14g
- Fiber: 7g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Dressing Storage: Keep dressing separate in a sealed jar for up to 3 days.
- Avoid Freezing: The dressing and spinach do not freeze well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Fresh & Flavorful – A delicious mix of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors.
✔ Nutrient-Rich – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of green instead of spinach?
Yes! Try kale, arugula, or romaine lettuce for a different texture.
2. How can I make this salad more filling?
Add quinoa, chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
3. Can I substitute walnuts in the dressing?
Yes! Use almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds instead.
4. What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?
Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar works great!
5. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just keep the dressing separate and mix before serving.
6. How do I store leftover dressing?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
7. Can I use a store-bought dressing instead?
Of course! A balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing pairs well.
8. Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?
Yes! Pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds are great options.
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9. What’s the best way to roast sweet potatoes?
Toss them in olive oil, salt, and paprika and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes.
10. Can I serve this salad warm?
Absolutely! Serve right after roasting the sweet potatoes for a cozy meal.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato and Spinach Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Whether you enjoy it fresh, warm, or chilled, its combination of flavors and nutrients makes it a must-try! Give it a go and enjoy a bowl of goodness! 🥗💚