Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing delights everyone!
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted; 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for dressing); 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for dressing); 2 tablespoons honey (for dressing); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for dressing); 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (for dressing); Salt and pepper to taste (for dressing)

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Introduction to Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing offers a perfect balance of fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any meal. The juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries combined with tender spinach leaves and a luscious, tangy poppy seed dressing creates a refreshing and irresistible salad. Whether served as a light lunch or a colorful side, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a true gem in my kitchen. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 10 minutes from start to finish. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy feta creates a delightful contrast that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it perfect for busy days when you want something nutritious yet satisfying.

Ingredients for Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh baby spinach: This leafy green is the base of our salad, providing a nutritious and vibrant backdrop.
Fresh strawberries: Sweet and juicy, these berries add a burst of flavor and color that’s hard to resist.
Red onion: Thinly sliced, it brings a mild sharpness that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy element that balances the salad beautifully.
Pecans: Chopped and toasted, these nuts introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Vegetable oil: This is the base for our dressing, helping to blend all the flavors together.
Apple cider vinegar: It adds a tangy kick that brightens the overall taste of the salad.
Honey: A touch of sweetness that enhances the dressing and ties all the flavors together.
Dijon mustard: This adds a subtle depth and a hint of spice to the dressing.
Poppy seeds: These tiny seeds add a lovely texture and a hint of nuttiness to the dressing.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they help elevate all the flavors in the salad.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries for extra sweetness. If you want a heartier salad, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be great protein additions. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Making this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together the dressing ingredients. In a small bowl, combine the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well blended. This dressing is the heart of the salad, so take a moment to ensure it’s mixed thoroughly. The sweet and tangy flavors will elevate your salad!

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Next, grab a large salad bowl. Add the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pecans. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor and texture, creating a delightful medley. Don’t be shy—mix them gently with your hands or a salad spoon. This is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Toss with Dressing

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Drizzle the prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss everything gently to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This step is crucial; you want every bite to be bursting with flavor. If you prefer a lighter touch, start with half the dressing and add more as needed.

Step 4: Serve or Chill

Finally, you can serve your salad right away for the freshest taste. However, if you have a few minutes to spare, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes can enhance the flavors even more. This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is best enjoyed fresh, but it also holds up well if you need to prepare it ahead of time!

Tips for Success

Always wash and dry your spinach thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad.
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
Use ripe strawberries for the best sweetness and juiciness.
Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for convenience.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl works well for whisking the dressing.
Salad bowl: Use a large bowl to combine all the salad ingredients.
Whisk: A fork can also do the job if you don’t have a whisk.
Salad tongs: Great for tossing the salad; a large spoon works too.

Variations

Berry Medley: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of sweetness and color.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal that’s still light and refreshing.
Nut-Free Option: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Vegan Twist: Replace feta with avocado or a vegan cheese alternative to keep it plant-based.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread or a light quiche for a delightful brunch.
For drinks, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra strawberries or a sprinkle of feta for an eye-catching presentation.

FAQs about Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

As I’ve shared my love for this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing, I often get questions from fellow home cooks. Here are some of the most common inquiries I’ve encountered:

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the poppy seed dressing a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it can last in the fridge for about 1-2 days. Just keep in mind that the spinach may wilt over time.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of spinach, feel free to substitute with mixed greens, arugula, or kale. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to the salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! To make it meal prep-friendly, store the salad ingredients and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

What can I serve with this salad?

This Strawberry Spinach Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or even a light pasta dish. It’s versatile enough to complement many meals!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about bringing joy to the table. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the eyes and the palate. I love how it effortlessly combines health and taste, making it a perfect choice for busy days or special gatherings. Each bite is a reminder that cooking can be simple yet delightful. So, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a picnic with friends, this salad is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction all around!

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