Strawberry Avocado and Spinach Salad

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach (washed and dried)

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• ¼ cup chopped pecans or slivered almonds (toasted for extra flavor)

• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (if not strict vegan)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Dressing:
   In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, sliced strawberries, avocado, red onion, and nuts/seeds.

3. Toss and Serve:
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Grilled chicken (if not vegan)

• Quinoa (for extra protein)

• Cucumber slices for crunch