Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad

If you’re searching for a wholesome, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s ready in minutes, look no further than the Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad. This vibrant salad combines the rich creaminess of ripe avocado with the fresh earthiness of spinach and the satisfying protein from eggs, crafting a perfect balance for quick lunches, light dinners, or even a healthy snack. Packed with nutrients and easy to prepare, this recipe is a delicious way to upgrade your regular egg salad and delight your taste buds all at once.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Creaminess: The avocado lends a buttery texture that makes every bite irresistibly smooth.
• Nutritious Powerhouse: Combining eggs and spinach brings essential proteins, vitamins, and antioxidants to your meal.
• Quick and Easy: Prep time is minimal, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
• Versatile Flavor: Mild yet flavorful, this salad pairs well with many dishes or can stand alone enthusiastically.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild taste are perfect for introducing veggies to picky eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad lies in the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering texture, color, and wholesome flavor without complicating your kitchen routine.

• Hard-Boiled Eggs: Rich in protein and essential nutrients, they form the protein-packed base of the salad.
• Ripe Avocado: Provides creaminess and heart-healthy fats that elevate every bite.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and a mild, earthy flavor packed with iron.
• Red Onion: Adds a subtle crunch and sharpness for an extra flavor kick.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and prevents the avocado from browning.
• Greek Yogurt (optional): Adds tanginess and a creamy alternative to heavy mayo.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring the whole salad together.
• Fresh Herbs: Dill or parsley make wonderful fragrant additions for freshness.

Variations for Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad

This salad is incredibly adaptable, meaning you can easily tweak the ingredients based on your tastes or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it your own special creation.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño for a fiery kick.
• Crunch Factor: Mix in chopped celery or toasted nuts like almonds for an added texture contrast.
• Dairy-Free Version: Skip the Greek yogurt and substitute with vegan mayonnaise or avocado oil for creaminess.
• Herb Explosion: Play with fresh cilantro, basil, or chives to change flavor profiles delightfully.
• Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas to boost the meal even more.

How to Make Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

Start by boiling your eggs until they’re hard-boiled (about 10-12 minutes). Once done, cool them under cold water and peel off the shells carefully.

Step 2: Mash the Avocado

In a mixing bowl, scoop out the ripe avocado and mash it with a fork until creamy but still slightly chunky — this texture contrasts beautifully with the diced eggs.

Step 3: Chop and Combine

Dice the boiled eggs, chop fresh spinach leaves finely, and finely mince red onion. Add all these ingredients to the mashed avocado bowl.

Step 4: Season and Mix

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture to keep avocado vibrant and add brightness. Stir in Greek yogurt if using, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Mix everything until combined but not overly mushy.

Step 5: Taste Test and Adjust

Give your salad a taste and adjust seasoning or add more lemon juice as needed. It should be creamy, fresh, and perfectly balanced.

Pro Tips for Making Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad

• Egg Timing: Use a timer for perfect hard-boiled eggs every time to avoid a chalky yolk.
• Avocado Ripeness: Select avocados that yield slightly to pressure but aren’t too soft for best texture.
• Prevent Browning: Lemon juice is key to keeping your avocado green throughout storage and serving.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Spinach Prep: Wash thoroughly and pat dry; excess moisture can make the salad soggy.

How to Serve Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, dill, or chives on top for an inviting presentation and extra burst of flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika or black pepper adds a touch of color and spice.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread, crackers, or even atop leafy greens as a refreshing side. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted sweet potatoes or grilled chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Enjoy the salad stuffed in avocado halves or spread on toasted sourdough for a delightful open-faced sandwich. You can also use it as a filling inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb, refreshing bite with crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality, consume within 1-2 days since avocado can darken over time.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the texture of avocado and spinach changes drastically upon thawing, resulting in mushy and watery consistency.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating can negatively affect the texture of eggs and avocado, so simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving if desired.

FAQs

Can I use baby spinach or regular spinach for this recipe?

Yes! Both baby spinach and regular spinach work well; baby spinach is tender and mild, while regular spinach provides a slightly earthier flavor and firmer texture.

Is there a vegan alternative to this Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad?

Absolutely. You can swap the eggs for chickpeas or tofu and use vegan mayo or mashed avocado to keep the creamy consistency.

How long does Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad last in the fridge?

It’s best eaten within 1-2 days since the avocado can oxidize and become brown, but keeping it airtight with lemon juice helps slow this process.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, adding diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or tomatoes can boost the freshness and add more texture to your salad.

What’s the best way to boil eggs for this salad?

Place eggs in cold water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath for easy peeling and perfect yolk texture.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Avocado and Spinach Egg Salad, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s creamy, flavorful, packed with good-for-you ingredients, and so versatile that you’ll find yourself enjoying it in countless ways. Easy to make and satisfying, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll feel great about sharing with family and friends. Dive in, experiment, and enjoy every vibrant, nutritious spoonful!

Related Posts

• Why Harvest Cobb Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Delights
• 5 Must-Try Beet and Arugula Salad Recipes
• Easy Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese Recipe

Print