Spinach Salad with Chicken, Avocado, and Goat Cheese Recipe

Salad with Toasted Pine Nuts, Chicken, and Avocado

Original recipe yields 4 servings

Ingredients

• cup pine nuts
• 8 cups chopped spinach
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 1 large avocado - peeled, pitted, and sliced
• cup corn kernels
• cup crumbled goat cheese

Salad Dressing

• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 pinch salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat. Toast pine nuts in the hot skillet for 3 to 5 minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant.

Step 2: In a large salad bowl, add the chopped spinach. Top the spinach with the toasted pine nuts, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped chicken, sliced avocado, corn kernels, and crumbled goat cheese.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, and Dijon mustard until the dressing is smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Recipe Tips

• Feta cheese can be substituted for goat cheese if preferred.
• Feel free to use fresh, canned, or frozen corn kernels based on availability.
• If you prefer a lighter dressing, add it gradually to your salad until you achieve the desired flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 441
• Total Fat: 32g (41% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (41% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 54mg (18% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 355mg (15% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g (7% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 8g (30% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 26g (52% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 46mg (51% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 176mg (14% Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (28% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1229mg (26% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your specific calorie needs.

Origin and History

The Spinach Salad with Chicken, Avocado, and Goat Cheese is a modern creation rooted in the principles of fresh, healthy eating that have become popular in recent decades. While not tied to any one specific region or culture, the combination of ingredients reflects the growing global trend towards light, nutrient-dense meals. Spinach, a staple in Mediterranean diets for centuries, pairs here with ingredients like avocadonative to the Americasand goat cheese, a popular dairy product in French and Mediterranean cooking. The dish epitomizes the modern fusion of flavors and textures from diverse culinary traditions.

Regional Variations

Spinach salads have many regional adaptations depending on local tastes and available ingredients. In the Mediterranean, you may find similar salads featuring greens like arugula or mixed lettuce, with added components such as olives, feta cheese, or nuts like pine nuts and walnuts. In the United States, particularly in California, the addition of avocado is common, thanks to the fruit's prominence in local cuisine. The goat cheese in this dish provides a tangy contrast, making it a versatile choice that can also be modified by substituting with feta or blue cheese depending on regional preferences.

Distinguishing Features

Compared to other chicken salads, the Spinach Salad with Chicken, Avocado, and Goat Cheese stands out due to its balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory elements. The tender spinach leaves offer a mild base, while the chicken provides protein and heartiness. The avocado adds richness and a creamy texture, which is complemented by the sharpness of the goat cheese. This combination is further enhanced by the crunch of pine nuts and the refreshing, zesty homemade vinaigrette. Unlike traditional chicken salads that often feature mayo or heavy dressings, this salad is lighter and fresher, making it ideal for a wholesome meal without the heaviness.

Where Its Typically Served

This salad is commonly served as a light lunch, dinner entre, or side dish in many Western restaurants, especially those that focus on healthy or contemporary cuisine. It is particularly popular in cafes or eateries that emphasize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The versatility of the salad makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal events. It can also be enjoyed as part of a meal prep routine, as its ingredients hold up well when stored in the fridge for a day or two.

Fun Facts

1. Avocados, a key ingredient in this salad, are sometimes referred to as "alligator pears" due to their rough, dark green skin.
2. Goat cheese is one of the oldest cheeses in the world, with origins dating back to ancient times in regions like Mesopotamia and Egypt.
3. Spinach has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was first introduced to Europe in the 11th century, making it a time-honored leafy green that still thrives in many cuisines today.
4. The pine nuts used in this salad are actually seeds from pine trees and have been used in cooking for thousands of years in Mediterranean dishes.

FAQ about Spinach Salad with Chicken, Avocado, and Goat Cheese Recipe

Comments