Strawberry Spinach Salad with Avocado & Walnuts

This simple, Mediterranean inspired salad is tasty and amazingly nutritious. Eat this salad frequently and you will feel more energetic and look better to boot. Add sliced chicken breast and make it a complete meal. Strawberries and spinach are rich in vitamins C& A, antioxidants and fiber. Spinach is also a great source of iron, potassium, vitamin E and magnesium. Iron is a mineral many people, particularly pre-menopausal women, tend to be deficient in. It’s very important for a strong immune system and blood oxygenation. Iron absorption is increased when consumed with vitamin C. The antioxidants in spinach and strawberries are associated with reduced risk for heart disease, improved blood sugar regulation, and reduced cancer risk. Walnuts and avocado are excellent sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL).

Makes: 2 servings
Time to cook: 10 minutes

Ingredients

· 3 cups baby spinach

· 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion

· ½ cup sliced strawberries

· 2 tablespoons vinaigrette, such as Annie's Light Raspberry Vinaigrette

· ¼ medium avocado, diced

· 2 tablespoons toasted walnut pieces

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine spinach, onion, and strawberries in a medium bowl. Drizzle with vinaigrette; toss to coat. Top with avocado and walnuts.

Nutrition per serving
150 calories; 9 grams fat; 2 grams saturated fat; 5 grams monounsaturated fat; 2grams polyunsaturated fat; 15 grams carbohydrates; 5 grams dietary fiber; 11 grams sugar; 8 grams protein; 195 milligrams sodium; 146 milligrams magnesium; 385 milligrams potassium; 222% DV Vitamin A; 114% DV Vitamin C

Recipe from Rachel Meltzer Warren, EatingWell.com

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