Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Introduction
This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for warm days or as a light meal. The sweet strawberries and crunchy almonds pair beautifully with the tangy dressing and creamy feta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz baby spinach
- 8 oz strawberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp poppy seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: In a dressing container or mason jar, whisk together the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, olive oil, and poppy seeds until well combined.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, sliced almonds, finely diced red onion, and feta cheese.
- Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, try substituting walnuts or pecans for the almonds.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the poppy seed dressing.
- To make it a more filling meal, add grilled chicken or avocado slices.
Storage
This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the spinach from wilting. If the salad softens, toss gently before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
It’s best to prepare the salad ingredients in advance but add the dressing just before serving to keep the spinach crisp and fresh.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad featuring baby spinach, sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, tangy red onion, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a homemade poppy seed dressing. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or a delightful side dish, combining sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Salad
- 8 oz baby spinach
- 8 oz strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a dressing container or mason jar, whisk together the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, sugar, olive oil, and poppy seeds until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, sliced almonds, finely diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and optimal texture.
Notes
- For best taste, use fresh, ripe strawberries and good quality feta cheese.
- You can substitute sliced almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the sugar to 1/2 tablespoon or substitute with honey or a sugar alternative.
- This salad is best served fresh; avoid making it too far in advance to prevent wilting.
- To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry Spinach Salad, Poppy Seed Dressing, Healthy Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Fresh Summer Salad
