Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe

In our home, weeknight dinners are often a balancing act between healthy, quick, and something the whole family will actually enjoy. For years, salads were met with groans, seen as a side dish afterthought rather than a vibrant part of the meal. That all changed the day I stumbled upon a recipe that promised to transform our salad perception forever: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. Intrigued by the sweet and savory combination and the promise of vibrant colors, I decided to give it a try.

The result? An absolute revelation! From the first bite, the symphony of flavors and textures was incredible. The sweetness of ripe strawberries perfectly complemented the earthy spinach, while the creamy feta and crunchy pecans added delightful layers of complexity. And the poppy seed dressing? Oh, the poppy seed dressing! Tangy, slightly sweet, and with a delightful nutty crunch from the poppy seeds themselves, it tied everything together beautifully. Even my notoriously salad-skeptical kids were instantly converted. “This is actually good salad, Mom!” became the resounding verdict.

Since that first triumphant salad night, Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing has become a regular staple in our kitchen. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, a quick and easy way to get a healthy dose of greens, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer barbecue with friends. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and utterly delicious – everything a perfect salad should be. Let me share with you the recipe that has won over even the toughest salad critics in my household, along with all the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way to make it truly exceptional. Get ready to experience a salad that’s not just good for you, but genuinely crave-worthy.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing each component to shine. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the salad itself and the star of the show – the poppy seed dressing.

For the Strawberry Spinach Salad:

• Fresh Spinach: 10 ounces of baby spinach, pre-washed. Baby spinach is preferred for its tender leaves and mild flavor, making it perfect for salads. Make sure to choose spinach that is vibrant green and crisp, avoiding any wilted or yellowing leaves. If you can only find regular spinach, be sure to remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Washing pre-washed spinach again is always a good idea to ensure it’s completely clean and free of any grit.
• Fresh Strawberries: 1 pint of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced. Ripe, juicy strawberries are key to the sweetness and vibrant flavor of this salad. Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid strawberries that are pale, bruised, or have green or white tips. Slicing the strawberries into uniform pieces ensures they are easy to eat and distribute evenly throughout the salad. For larger strawberries, you may want to quarter them.
• Feta Cheese: 4 ounces of crumbled feta cheese. Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy, and creamy element to the salad that perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the earthiness of the spinach. Look for feta cheese that is stored in brine for the best flavor and moisture. You can use regular feta or reduced-fat feta, depending on your preference. If you’re not a fan of feta, you could substitute with goat cheese or crumbled blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Pecans or Walnuts: ½ cup of pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped. Nuts provide a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that adds texture and depth to the salad. Pecans and walnuts are both excellent choices, but you can also experiment with other nuts like almonds or pistachios. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and crispness. You can toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently, or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Make sure to let them cool completely before chopping and adding to the salad.
• Red Onion (Optional): ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion (optional, but highly recommended). Red onion adds a subtle sharpness and bite that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and dressing. If you are sensitive to the strong flavor of raw red onion, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes to mellow out their intensity. Make sure to slice the red onion very thinly so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors in the salad.

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:

• Olive Oil: ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil forms the base of the dressing and provides a rich, fruity flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior taste and health benefits. Choose a good quality olive oil for the best results.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy and slightly fruity acidity that balances the sweetness of the other dressing ingredients. It also contributes to the dressing’s emulsification and helps to tenderize the spinach slightly. You can substitute with white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: 3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness to the dressing and balances the acidity of the vinegar. Honey will give a slightly floral and golden hue, while maple syrup will impart a richer, caramel-like sweetness. You can adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Dijon mustard adds a tangy, savory depth and helps to emulsify the dressing, creating a creamy and cohesive texture. Dijon mustard is preferred for its smooth texture and complex flavor, but you can use yellow mustard in a pinch, although the flavor will be less nuanced.
• Poppy Seeds: 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds. Poppy seeds are the namesake ingredient of this dressing and provide a delightful nutty crunch and subtle flavor. Make sure to use fresh poppy seeds for the best flavor and texture.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients in the dressing. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper and adjust to your liking. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter and more aromatic flavor.

Having these high-quality ingredients ready ensures that your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing will be bursting with fresh flavors and delightful textures. Don’t be afraid to use the best ingredients you can find – it truly makes a difference in the final result!

Instructions

Creating this vibrant and flavorful Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is surprisingly simple and quick. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring this delightful salad to life in your own kitchen:

Making the Poppy Seed Dressing:

1. Combine Dressing Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Whisk vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified, meaning the dressing becomes slightly thickened and the oil and vinegar are no longer separated. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and cohesive dressing.
2. Add Poppy Seeds and Season: Stir in the poppy seeds into the dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and then taste and adjust as needed. Remember that the flavors will meld together and intensify as the dressing sits, so it’s often best to slightly under-season initially and adjust later if necessary.
3. Set Aside: Set the poppy seed dressing aside while you prepare the salad ingredients. This allows the flavors to meld and the poppy seeds to slightly soften and release their nutty flavor into the dressing. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you make it in advance, be sure to whisk it again before using as it may separate slightly upon standing.

Assembling the Strawberry Spinach Salad:

1. Prepare Salad Ingredients: Ensure your spinach is washed and dried, strawberries are hulled and sliced, feta cheese is crumbled, pecans or walnuts are toasted and chopped, and red onion (if using) is thinly sliced. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the assembly process quick and efficient.
2. Combine Spinach and Strawberries: In a large salad bowl, gently toss together the baby spinach and sliced strawberries. Be gentle when tossing to avoid bruising the delicate spinach leaves and strawberries. The spinach provides the leafy base, and the strawberries add sweetness and vibrant color.
3. Add Feta, Nuts, and Red Onion (Optional): Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, toasted pecans or walnuts, and thinly sliced red onion (if using) over the spinach and strawberry mixture. Distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the salad for a balanced flavor and texture in every bite.
4. Drizzle with Dressing: Just before serving, drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad. Start with about half to three-quarters of the dressing and toss gently to combine. You can always add more dressing if needed, but it’s best to start with less and add more to avoid overdressing the salad, which can make it soggy. Toss until the spinach and strawberries are lightly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the Strawberry Spinach Salad immediately for the best flavor and texture. The spinach is freshest and crispiest right after it’s dressed. If you are preparing the salad ahead of time, you can assemble all the ingredients except for the dressing and store them separately in the refrigerator. Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.

Following these simple instructions will lead you to a beautifully assembled and incredibly delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. It’s a salad that is both easy to make and impressive to serve, perfect for any occasion from a quick weeknight meal to a special gathering. Enjoy the fresh flavors and vibrant colors of this wonderful salad!

Nutrition Facts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that offers a good balance of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information per serving. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 6 servings as a side salad. If serving as a light main course, it may serve 3-4 people.

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving. This is a moderate calorie count, making it a great choice for a healthy meal or side dish.
• Total Fat: 18-22 grams. The majority of the fat comes from healthy sources like olive oil and nuts, which are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats beneficial for heart health.
  • Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams. Saturated fat content is relatively low, primarily from the feta cheese.
• Cholesterol: 15-20 mg. Cholesterol content is also low.
• Sodium: 200-300 mg. Sodium content is moderate and comes primarily from feta cheese and salt in the dressing. You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium feta or reducing added salt.
• Total Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams. Carbohydrates are primarily from the strawberries, honey/maple syrup, and spinach.
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-4 grams. Spinach and strawberries are good sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
  • Sugars: 10-12 grams. Sugars are naturally occurring in strawberries and honey/maple syrup.
• Protein: 5-7 grams. Protein comes from feta cheese and nuts, contributing to a feeling of fullness.

Key Nutrients:

• Vitamin C: Strawberries and spinach are excellent sources of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
• Vitamin K: Spinach is incredibly rich in Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.
• Vitamin A: Spinach also provides a good amount of Vitamin A, important for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
• Folate (Vitamin B9): Spinach is a good source of folate, crucial for cell division and DNA synthesis.
• Potassium: Spinach and strawberries contribute to potassium intake, an electrolyte important for heart health and blood pressure regulation.
• Iron: Spinach provides non-heme iron, essential for oxygen transport in the blood.
• Calcium: Feta cheese is a source of calcium, important for bone health.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and nuts provide heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids.
• Antioxidants: Strawberries and spinach are rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a nutritious and delicious way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. It’s relatively low in calories and fat while being rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Enjoy it as a healthy and flavorful addition to your meals! For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact brands and amounts of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

One of the many advantages of Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is its quick and easy preparation. From start to finish, you can have this vibrant salad ready to enjoy in a matter of minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes:
  • Washing and prepping spinach: 2-3 minutes. Ensuring the spinach is clean and ready to use.
  • Hull and slice strawberries: 5-7 minutes. Preparing the strawberries for the salad.
  • Crumbing feta cheese (if needed): 1-2 minutes. If you are starting with a block of feta.
  • Toasting and chopping nuts (optional, but recommended): 5-7 minutes. Toasting can be done while prepping other ingredients simultaneously. Chopping takes just a minute or two.
  • Thinly slicing red onion (optional): 1-2 minutes. If you choose to include red onion.
  • Making the poppy seed dressing: 5 minutes. Whisking together the dressing ingredients is quick and straightforward.
• Total Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes. Since the dressing can be made while prepping the salad ingredients, the total time is essentially the same as the prep time.

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Use pre-washed spinach: Buying pre-washed baby spinach saves a significant amount of time.
• Toast nuts in advance: Toast a larger batch of nuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They will keep for several days and be ready to use in salads or other recipes.
• Make the dressing ahead: The poppy seed dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saver, especially if you plan to make the salad frequently.
• Utilize kitchen tools: A salad spinner is helpful for quickly drying spinach. A good knife and cutting board will make prepping the strawberries and red onion efficient.

With minimal prep time and simple steps, Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is an ideal choice for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or anytime you crave a healthy and delicious salad without spending hours in the kitchen. Its speed and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for a quick and satisfying meal.

How to Serve

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making it suitable for different occasions and meals. Here are some ideas on how to best serve and enjoy this delightful salad:

• As a Side Salad: This is the most classic way to serve Strawberry Spinach Salad. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses.
  • Grilled Chicken or Fish: The fresh and light salad complements the richness of grilled proteins perfectly.
  • Roasted Meats: Serve alongside roasted chicken, pork, or beef for a balanced and flavorful meal.
  • Pasta Dishes: A refreshing counterpoint to heavier pasta dishes, especially those with creamy sauces.
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: Adds a healthy and vibrant side to lunchtime sandwiches or wraps.
  • Vegetarian Mains: Pairs well with vegetarian options like quiches, veggie burgers, or lentil dishes.
• As a Light Main Course: For a lighter meal, especially during warmer months, Strawberry Spinach Salad can easily be the star of the show.
  • Add Protein: To make it a more substantial main course, add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs on top.
  • Include Grains: Adding cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous can boost the salad’s heartiness and provide added nutrients.
  • Make it a Salad Bowl: Create a beautiful and filling salad bowl by layering the spinach salad with other fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or avocado, along with your choice of protein and grains.
• For Special Occasions and Gatherings: This salad is elegant and visually appealing, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, and holidays.
  • Summer Barbecues: A refreshing and vibrant addition to any barbecue spread.
  • Picnics: Easy to transport and enjoy outdoors (dress the salad just before serving at the picnic).
  • Holiday Brunches or Luncheons: Adds a pop of color and freshness to holiday meals.
  • Potlucks and Parties: Always a crowd-pleaser and easy to make in larger quantities.
• Presentation Tips: How you present the salad can enhance its appeal.
  • Use a Large, Shallow Bowl: This allows the ingredients to be nicely displayed and makes it easier to toss the salad.
  • Arrange Ingredients Attractively: Layer the spinach, strawberries, feta, and nuts artfully for a visually appealing salad.
  • Drizzle Dressing Just Before Serving: This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. Consider serving the dressing on the side for guests to add their preferred amount.
  • Garnish: A sprinkle of extra poppy seeds, chopped fresh herbs like mint or basil, or a few extra strawberry slices can add a final touch of elegance.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is sure to be a hit. Its versatility and deliciousness make it a wonderful addition to any meal or gathering.

Additional Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad

To elevate your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing from delicious to absolutely exceptional, here are five helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Quality Ingredients Matter: Since this salad is relatively simple, the quality of your ingredients truly shines through. Opt for the freshest, ripest strawberries you can find. Choose vibrant, tender baby spinach. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the overall flavor and enjoyment of the salad. Especially with strawberries, ripe and in-season berries will be significantly sweeter and more flavorful than those that are underripe or out of season.
2. Toast Your Nuts for Enhanced Flavor and Texture: Toasting pecans or walnuts (or any nuts you choose to use) is a crucial step that should not be skipped. Toasting brings out the natural oils in the nuts, intensifying their nutty flavor and adding a delightful crispness. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Be sure to let them cool completely before chopping and adding to the salad to maintain their crunch. Toasting adds a depth of flavor and textural contrast that significantly enhances the salad experience.
3. Don’t Overdress the Salad: A common mistake with salads is overdressing them, which can make them soggy and mask the fresh flavors of the ingredients. Start by drizzling about half to three-quarters of the poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Taste the salad and add more dressing gradually, if needed, until the spinach and strawberries are lightly coated but not swimming in dressing. It’s always better to underdress than overdress. You can also serve the dressing on the side, allowing individuals to add their preferred amount.
4. Prepare Components Ahead, Assemble Just Before Serving: To ensure the freshest and crispiest salad, prepare the individual components in advance but assemble the salad just before serving. You can wash and dry the spinach, hull and slice the strawberries, crumble the feta, toast and chop the nuts, and make the poppy seed dressing all ahead of time. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine the spinach, strawberries, feta, and nuts in a bowl, drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately. This prevents the spinach from wilting and the salad from becoming soggy.
5. Customize and Adapt to Your Preferences: This recipe is a fantastic base, but feel free to customize it to your own taste and dietary preferences. Don’t like feta? Try goat cheese or blue cheese. Prefer almonds to pecans? Go for it! Want to add more vegetables? Cucumber, avocado, or bell peppers would be great additions. Need a vegan option? Omit the feta and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar in the dressing, like white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, for a slightly different flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! This salad is very adaptable and forgiving, allowing for endless variations.

By following these additional tips, you can take your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing to the next level, creating a truly memorable and delicious dish every time.

FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered

We understand you might have some questions about making the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you create this delightful salad with ease:

Q1: Can I make the poppy seed dressing ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! In fact, making the poppy seed dressing ahead of time is a great time-saving tip. The dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld together and deepen over time, often making it even better the next day. Just be sure to whisk it well before using, as it may separate slightly upon standing. Having the dressing ready to go makes assembling the salad a breeze, especially on busy weeknights.

Q2: I don’t have poppy seeds, can I still make the dressing?

A: While poppy seeds are a key component and give the dressing its signature flavor and texture, you can still make a delicious dressing without them. The dressing will still be tangy, sweet, and flavorful thanks to the other ingredients. If you want to add a bit of crunch, you could try substituting with toasted sesame seeds or even finely chopped toasted nuts in the dressing, although the flavor profile will be slightly different. However, for the true Poppy Seed Dressing experience, it’s best to use poppy seeds if possible. They add a unique nutty flavor and delightful texture that is hard to replicate.

Q3: Can I substitute other fruits for strawberries?

A: Yes, you can definitely experiment with other fruits in this salad! While strawberries are classic and provide a wonderful sweetness, other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries would also be delicious. Peaches or nectarines, when in season, can also be a fantastic addition, adding a different kind of sweetness and juiciness. Even mandarin oranges or segments of grapefruit could work for a citrusy twist. The key is to choose fruits that are ripe and slightly sweet to complement the spinach and dressing. Feel free to get creative and use whatever seasonal fruits you enjoy!

Q4: How long does Strawberry Spinach Salad last once it’s dressed?

A: For the best quality, Strawberry Spinach Salad is best enjoyed immediately after it’s dressed. Once the dressing is added, the spinach will start to wilt and the salad will lose its crispness over time. If you have leftovers of dressed salad, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day, but the texture will be softer and less crisp. For optimal results, it’s best to dress only the portion of salad you plan to eat immediately and store any undressed salad components separately in the refrigerator.

Q5: Can I add protein to make this a main course salad?

A: Absolutely! Adding protein is a fantastic way to transform Strawberry Spinach Salad into a more substantial and satisfying main course. Grilled chicken or shrimp are classic and delicious additions that pair beautifully with the flavors of the salad. Other great protein options include grilled or baked salmon, tofu (grilled, baked, or pan-fried), chickpeas (roasted or pan-fried), lentils, or hard-boiled eggs. Simply add your protein of choice on top of the dressed salad to create a complete and balanced meal. This makes it a versatile option for lunch or dinner.

We hope these FAQs are helpful! Enjoy creating and savoring your own delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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