Name: Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Salad:; 2 chicken breasts; 2 tsp olive oil; salt and pepper; 1 fresh pineapple; 8 cups baby spinach; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 avocado; ½ cup feta cheese; ¼ red onion; honey garlic vinaigrette; For Honey Garlic Vinaigrette:; ¾ cup avocado oil; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 3 tbsp honey; 2 garlic cloves; pinch salt and black pepper

This refreshing grilled pineapple and avocado salad combines savory chicken breasts with the sweetness of pineapple and blueberries. Tossed with baby spinach and topped with creamy feta cheese, this salad is drizzled with a delightful honey garlic vinaigrette.

Photos of Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients are commonly found, be mindful of fresh pineapple and avocado oil. Fresh pineapple can sometimes be substituted with canned, but the flavor profile will differ. Avocado oil is less common than olive oil, but it adds a unique, subtle flavor to the vinaigrette.

Ingredients For Grilled Pineapple And Avocado Salad

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the protein base of the salad.

Olive oil: Used for grilling the chicken and pineapple, adds moisture and flavor.

Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and pineapple.

Fresh pineapple: Provides a sweet, tangy element that complements the savory components.

Baby spinach: The leafy green base of the salad, rich in nutrients.

Fresh blueberries: Adds a burst of sweetness and color to the salad.

Avocado: Creamy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Feta cheese: Adds a salty, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the fruit.

Red onion: Provides a sharp, pungent flavor to balance the sweetness.

Avocado oil: Used in the vinaigrette for a mild, smooth flavor.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity to the vinaigrette, balancing the sweetness of the honey.

Honey: Sweetens the vinaigrette while complementing the garlic.

Garlic cloves: Gives the vinaigrette a savory depth.

Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the vinaigrette's flavor.

One reader, Ky Culpepper says:

This grilled pineapple and avocado salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The juicy pineapple and creamy avocado pair perfectly with the savory chicken and tangy vinaigrette. A refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion!

Ky Culpepper

Mastering the Techniques for Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad

How to grill chicken: Brush the chicken with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and cook on a preheated grill for about 5 minutes per side until cooked through. How to grill pineapple: Place pineapple slices on a preheated grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side until they have grill marks and are slightly caramelized. How to make vinaigrette: Whisk together avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until blended. Let sit for at least 10 minutes for flavors to meld, then whisk again before using. How to slice chicken: After grilling and cooling, slice the chicken breasts into strips. How to cut pineapple: After grilling and cooling, cut the pineapple slices into chunks.

How To Make Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad

Start your day with a healthy and filling meal with this avocado salad tossed with chicken and grilled pineapple mixed together in one flavorful bowl.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salad:

2chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
2tspolive oil
salt and pepper
1fresh pineapple,peeled, cored, and sliced into 1-in thick rings
8cupsbaby spinach
1cupfresh blueberries
1avocado,peeled, pitted, and diced
½cupfeta cheese,crumbled
¼red onion,thinly sliced
honey garlic vinaigrette

For Honey Garlic Vinaigrette:

¾cupavocado oil,or any mild-flavored oil
¼cupapple cider vinegar
3tbsphoney
2garlic cloves,minced
pinchsalt and black pepper

Instructions

Salad:

Brush the chicken on both sides with olive oil then season generously with salt and pepper.
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Place pineapple slices and chicken breasts on the grill.
Cook for about 5 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink on the inside.
Remove pineapple and chicken and let cool for at least 10 minutes then slice chicken into strips and cut pineapple into chunks.
In a large bowl, toss together spinach, blueberries, feta, red onion, pineapple, and chicken until combined. Drizzle or toss with salad dressing, and serve immediately

Vinaigrette:

Whisk all ingredients together until blended. Let sit for at least 10 minutes for flavors to meld. Whisk again until blended then drizzle over salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 863.82kcal
Fat: 63.12g
Saturated Fat: 11.31g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 39.67g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.69g
Carbohydrates: 57.17g
Fiber: 8.85g
Sugar: 40.51g
Protein: 24.43g
Cholesterol: 72.37mg
Sodium: 1222.06mg
Calcium: 180.48mg
Potassium: 911.83mg
Iron: 2.81mg
Vitamin A: 150.38µg
Vitamin C: 123.51mg

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Pre-cook chicken: Grill chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This way, you can quickly assemble the salad when needed.

Use pre-cut pineapple: Buy pre-cut pineapple chunks to save time on slicing and dicing.

Ready-made vinaigrette: Purchase a high-quality honey garlic vinaigrette to skip making it from scratch.

Batch prep ingredients: Wash and chop spinach, blueberries, and red onion in advance. Store them in separate containers for easy assembly.

Quick avocado prep: Slice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based protein that can be grilled similarly to chicken, making it a suitable substitute for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat consumption.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a similar high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.
fresh pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango provides a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile and can be grilled to achieve a similar texture.
baby spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula offers a peppery taste that can add a different but complementary flavor to the salad.
fresh blueberries - Substitute with strawberries: Strawberries provide a sweet and slightly tart flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the salad.
avocado - Substitute with cucumber: Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and can be a lower-calorie alternative to avocado.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a good alternative to feta.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor and can be used raw or lightly grilled, similar to red onions.
honey garlic vinaigrette - Substitute with balsamic vinaigrette: Balsamic vinaigrette provides a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the salad ingredients well.
avocado oil - Substitute with extra virgin olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil has a rich flavor and similar health benefits, making it a suitable substitute in the vinaigrette.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used to achieve a comparable flavor in the vinaigrette.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a natural sweetness and can be used as a vegan alternative to honey.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though it should be used in smaller quantities due to its concentrated flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt offers a similar flavor and can be used interchangeably with table salt.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and can be used as an alternative to black pepper.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad

Use a large, white plate: The blank canvas of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the baby spinach, blueberries, pineapple, and avocado pop, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Slice chicken thinly: After grilling, let the chicken breasts rest and then slice them into thin, even strips. This not only makes the chicken easier to eat but also allows for a more elegant presentation.
Arrange spinach as a base: Create a bed of baby spinach on the plate, spreading it out evenly to form a lush, green foundation for the other ingredients.
Fan out avocado slices: Cut the avocado into thin slices and fan them out on one side of the plate. This adds a touch of sophistication and highlights the creamy texture of the avocado.
Scatter blueberries and feta: Evenly distribute the fresh blueberries and feta cheese over the baby spinach. The blueberries add a burst of color and sweetness, while the feta provides a salty contrast.
Place pineapple chunks strategically: Cut the grilled pineapple into bite-sized chunks and place them around the plate. Their caramelized edges will add a beautiful golden hue and a hint of smokiness.
Add red onion for color and crunch: Thinly slice the red onion and sprinkle it over the salad. The red onion adds a sharp, tangy flavor and a pop of color.
Drizzle vinaigrette artistically: Use a small spoon or a squeeze bottle to drizzle the honey garlic vinaigrette over the salad in a zigzag or circular pattern. This ensures even distribution and adds a touch of elegance.
Garnish with microgreens: For an extra touch of refinement, add a small handful of microgreens on top of the salad. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fresh, delicate flavor.
Serve immediately: Ensure the salad is served promptly to maintain the crispness of the baby spinach and the freshness of the other ingredients.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Salad

Outdoor grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts and pineapple slices, giving them a delicious smoky flavor.
Grill pan: An alternative to the outdoor grill, perfect for indoor cooking.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken breasts and pineapple slices on the grill.
Basting brush: Used to brush olive oil onto the chicken breasts.
Cutting board: Essential for slicing the chicken and cutting the pineapple into chunks.
Chef's knife: Ideal for slicing the chicken, cutting the pineapple, and chopping the red onion.
Large bowl: Used to toss together the spinach, blueberries, feta, red onion, pineapple, and chicken.
Whisk: Necessary for blending the ingredients of the honey garlic vinaigrette.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey for the vinaigrette.
Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring the salt, pepper, and other small quantities of ingredients.
Garlic press: Helps to mince the garlic cloves for the vinaigrette.
Salad tongs: Useful for tossing the salad ingredients together and serving.
Serving platter: Perfect for presenting the finished salad.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad

To store the grilled pineapple and avocado salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the spinach and avocado may start to wilt and brown after a day.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, it's best to store the components separately:
- Grill and slice the chicken and pineapple, then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Wash and dry the spinach and store it in a sealed plastic bag with a slightly damp paper towel to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.
- Slice the red onion and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prepare the honey garlic vinaigrette and store it in a jar with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- When ready to serve, slice the avocado and assemble the salad.
Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to the delicate nature of the spinach and avocado. The texture and flavor of these ingredients will be compromised upon thawing.
However, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap the cooled, sliced chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before using it in the salad.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad

The best way to reheat leftover grilled pineapple and avocado salad is to separate the components and reheat them individually. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of each ingredient.
For the grilled chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover them loosely with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat the grilled pineapple, heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are warmed and slightly caramelized.
For the spinach, blueberries, feta cheese, and red onion, it's best to keep them fresh and cold. If the spinach has wilted, you can refresh it by soaking it in cold water for a few minutes, then draining and patting it dry.
To reheat the honey garlic vinaigrette, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until it's warm. Alternatively, you can heat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
When you're ready to serve, slice the avocado and assemble the salad by combining the fresh ingredients with the reheated chicken and pineapple. Drizzle the warm vinaigrette over the top and enjoy your leftover salad!

Interesting Trivia About the Ingredients in This Salad

A unique aspect of this grilled pineapple and avocado salad recipe is the combination of sweet and savory flavors. The grilled pineapple adds a caramelized sweetness, while the feta cheese and honey garlic vinaigrette provide a tangy and savory balance.

Budget-Friendly: Making Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad at Home

This grilled pineapple and avocado salad recipe is moderately cost-effective. The chicken breasts and avocado are the pricier ingredients, but the rest, like baby spinach, blueberries, and feta cheese, are relatively affordable. The homemade honey garlic vinaigrette adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall, this dish balances nutrition and flavor well, making it a worthwhile investment for a household. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost: $25-30 USD for a household of 4 people.

Is This Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Healthy?

This grilled pineapple and avocado salad recipe is a healthy and nutritious option for a summer meal. The salad is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients such as:

Spinach: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium
Blueberries: High in antioxidants and vitamin C
Avocado: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber
Chicken: A lean source of protein
Pineapple: Contains vitamin C, manganese, and digestive enzymes

The honey garlic vinaigrette is made with avocado oil, which is a healthier alternative to processed vegetable oils. However, the dressing does contain honey, which adds some sugar to the salad.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the feta cheese for a lower-fat alternative like goat cheese or omit it altogether to reduce the overall fat content
Add more colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or cherry tomatoes to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
Use a leaner protein source, such as grilled shrimp or tofu, for a plant-based option
Reduce the amount of honey in the vinaigrette or replace it with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia to minimize added sugars
Incorporate whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates to the salad

Editor's Opinion: Why I Love This Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad

This grilled pineapple and avocado salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The smoky sweetness of the grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado and tangy feta. The addition of fresh blueberries adds a burst of freshness, while the honey garlic vinaigrette ties everything together with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The grilled chicken provides a satisfying protein element, making this salad both nutritious and filling. Overall, it's a vibrant and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer meal.

Enhance Your Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of sweet potatoes perfectly roasted to complement the smoky flavors of your grilled pineapple and avocado salad. These wedges bring a delightful contrast of textures and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the honey garlic vinaigrette.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: A vibrant quinoa and black bean salad adds a hearty, protein-packed side to your meal. The nutty flavor of quinoa and the earthiness of black beans, combined with fresh cilantro and a zesty lime dressing, create a refreshing and satisfying accompaniment.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred to perfection, grilled corn on the cob offers a smoky, sweet flavor that harmonizes with the tropical notes of the pineapple in your main dish. A sprinkle of chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice elevate this classic side to new heights.

Mango Salsa: Bright and zesty, a mango salsa brings a burst of tropical freshness to your plate. The juicy mango, combined with red bell pepper, red onion, and a hint of jalapeño, creates a vibrant, colorful side that enhances the flavors of your grilled chicken and spinach salad.

Coconut Rice: Creamy and fragrant, coconut rice provides a luscious, slightly sweet base that complements the savory and fruity elements of your main course. The subtle coconut flavor and fluffy texture make it a delightful pairing with the grilled pineapple and avocado.

Discover Similar Salad Recipes to Try

Mango Chicken Salad: This vibrant salad combines juicy mango, tender chicken, and crisp mixed greens with a zesty lime vinaigrette. Perfect for a refreshing summer meal.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: A hearty and nutritious salad featuring quinoa, black beans, corn, avocado, and a tangy cilantro lime dressing. Ideal for a protein-packed lunch.

Shrimp and Avocado Salad: Succulent shrimp paired with creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, all tossed in a light lemon herb dressing. A delightful seafood option.

Berry Spinach Salad: A sweet and savory mix of fresh berries, baby spinach, goat cheese, and candied pecans, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a summer picnic.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Grilled peaches and creamy burrata cheese on a bed of arugula, topped with prosciutto and a drizzle of honey balsamic glaze. A sophisticated and flavorful dish.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. Start by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling and earthy mushrooms create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes, making them an irresistible start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italy to your table with Caprese Skewers. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze and a hint of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, enhanced by the tangy sweetness of balsamic, offers a refreshing and elegant appetizer that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the richness of a molten chocolate center that oozes out as you take your first bite. This decadent dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a sensational experience for your taste buds. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries to add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness to each bite.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty delight of a tangy lemon filling topped with a cloud of fluffy meringue. The crisp, buttery crust provides the perfect base for the vibrant lemon curd, while the light, airy meringue adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful golden-brown finish. Serve this refreshing dessert chilled, and garnish with a few lemon zest curls for an extra pop of citrus flavor. It's a perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it an ideal end to any meal.

Why trust this Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Recipe:

This recipe combines the sweetness of grilled pineapple with the creaminess of avocado and the savory flavor of chicken breasts. The honey garlic vinaigrette adds a delightful tang, making it a well-balanced dish. The use of fresh ingredients like baby spinach, blueberries, and feta cheese ensures a nutritious and flavorful meal. Trust this recipe for its harmonious blend of textures and tastes, perfect for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

If you enjoyed this Grilled Pineapple and Avocado Salad Recipe, be sure to share your thoughts and experiences in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I usually check if the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, it should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Fresh pineapple is best for grilling because it holds up better and has a more vibrant flavor. But if you're in a pinch, canned pineapple rings can work too. Just make sure to drain them well.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or even a mild blue cheese. If you're looking for a non-dairy option, try using a vegan cheese or simply omit it.

How long can I store the honey garlic vinaigrette?

You can store the vinaigrette in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using it again.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep most of the ingredients ahead of time, like grilling the chicken and pineapple, and making the vinaigrette. Just keep everything separate and toss together right before serving to keep the spinach fresh and the flavors vibrant.