The tequila-spiked dressing lends a signature flavor to fresh strawberries and greens. While crusty French bread is a classic salad accompaniment, serve a basket of warm soft pretzels instead to evoke the salted rim of a margarita glass.
VINAIGRETTE
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoons orange liqueur, such as Triple Sec, or orange juice
1 1/2 teaspoons tequila or margarita mix
1 1/2 teaspoons minced shallots
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon grated lime peel
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
SALAD
9 cups baby spinach (about 9 oz.)
1 1/2 cups strawberries, halved or sliced if large
1 avocado, chopped
1. Whisk all vinaigrette ingredients except oil in small bowl until combined. Slowly whisk in oil until blended. Let stand 15 minutes. (Vinaigrette can be made 3 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using.)
2. Toss spinach in large bowl with enough vinaigrette to lightly coat. Add strawberries and avocado; toss to coat.
6 (1 1/4-cup) servings
PER SERVING: 145 calories, 13 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 2 g protein, 7 g carbohydrate, 0 mg cholesterol, 135 mg sodium, 3.5 g fiber