Sliced strawberries are marinated in a tangy lemon dressing and combined with creamy avocado wedges and fresh basil for a simple, seasonal side dish that's ideal for spring and summer. This recipe can easily be made vegan (just use agave nectar to sweeten the dressing). Optional hemp hearts add protein to this plant-based recipe!
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine gluten-free, vegan option, vegetarian
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 20 minutesminutes
Servings 6people
Calories 229kcal
Author Stephanie McKercher, RDN
Equipment
Knife and cutting board
Mixing bowls
Ingredients
Lemon Hemp Dressing:
¼cupextra virgin olive oil
1tablespoongrated lemon peel
2tablespoonslemon juice
1tablespoonhemp seeds(optional)
1tablespoonchopped fresh mint(optional)
1teaspoonhoneyor agave nectar (optional)
¼teaspoonsalt
⅛teaspoonblack pepper
Strawberry Avocado Salad:
1cupsliced strawberries
2avocadossliced into wedges
¼cupfresh basil,torn
1tablespoonhemp seeds(optional)
Instructions
Prepare the dressing:
Whisk olive oil, lemon peel, lemon juice, hemp hearts (if using), mint (if using), honey or agave nectar (if using), salt, and pepper.
Prepare the salad:
Pour half of the lemon dressing over the sliced strawberries and gently toss until evenly coated. Set aside for at least 10 minutes.
Arrange avocado wedges, sliced strawberries, basil, and hemp hearts (if using) on a serving dish. Pour the remaining dressing over the mixture and gently toss until evenly coated. Enjoy!
Notes
Vegan: Use agave nectar instead of honey, or omit the sweetener completely if preferred.
Making Ahead: The lemon dressing can be prepared up to 2 weeks in advance. Make the salad immediately before serving.
Storage: Store prepared dressing in an airtight container (such as a jar with lid) and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. This salad is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days if needed. (Coating the avocado in the lemon dressing will slow the browning process.)
Nutrition facts are estimates only and are calculated with optional ingredients included.