Avocado and Spinach Keto Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A fresh low-carb salad featuring creamy avocado and tender spinach leaves, tossed in a zesty lemon dressing rich in healthy fats. This mediterranean-inspired salads (keto, low carb) ready in about 10 minutes blends baby spinach leaves, large, diced ripe avocado, tablespoons extra virgin olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 350 cal/serving
Build a week of meals around this recipe → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine 4 cups baby spinach leaves and 1 large diced ripe avocado.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 small minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until emulsified and creamy.
  3. Step 3: Pour the lemon dressing over the spinach and avocado, gently tossing to coat all leaves without mashing the avocado.
  4. Step 4: Top the salad with 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts for texture and flavor. Serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Avocado and Spinach Keto Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Avocado and Spinach Keto Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Avocado and Spinach Keto Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Avocado and Spinach Keto Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Avocado and Spinach Keto Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, low carb, gluten free, vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

Related recipes