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.
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! 🥗💚