If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender baby spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy candied nuts, all tossed in a luscious homemade dressing that elevates every bite. It’s light enough for a quick lunch but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Plus, the creamy feta and optional avocado add delightful creaminess that makes this salad truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The foundation of the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe lies in simple, wholesome ingredients that each add a unique touch. From the peppery bite of fresh spinach to the sweet pop of strawberries and the zesty dressing, every component is essential to achieving the perfect flavor harmony.
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach: Tender and mild, this vibrant green base is packed with nutrients and makes for a refreshing salad foundation.
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries: These add a juicy sweetness and beautiful red color, brightening the dish.
- ½ small red onion (thinly sliced): Provides a sharp, crunchy contrast that balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Offers a creamy, tangy element that complements both fruit and greens.
- â…“ cup candied pecans or walnuts: Adds a delightful crunchy texture and a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- 1 avocado (sliced, optional): For an extra creamy, buttery addition that enriches the salad.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds: Small seeds that add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor to the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Natural sweetness that balances the tangy vinegar in the dressing.
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar: Essential for that signature tangy depth in the poppy seed dressing.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a mild kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
- â…“ cup olive oil: The silky base that rounds out the dressing beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s flavor.
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by gathering the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and candied pecans in a large bowl. If you’re using avocado, slice it just before adding to prevent browning. Combining these ingredients first builds the hearty, colorful foundation of the salad.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the poppy seeds, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Whisk or shake vigorously until everything is well blended and slightly thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is the secret ingredient that ties the salad into a perfect flavor symphony.
Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, ensuring the leaves stay crisp. Toss gently with tongs or salad spoons to evenly coat every bite with that irresistible balsamic poppy seed flavor, but be careful not to bruise the delicate ingredients.
How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair, consider adding edible flowers like pansies or nasturtiums that complement the salad’s fresh look. A sprinkle of extra candied nuts or a few fresh strawberry slices on the side also make for a lovely presentation that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This spinach strawberry salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon, which adds protein and makes for a more filling meal. Lightly toasted crusty bread or a simple quinoa pilaf also balance the freshness with heartier textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the beautiful reds and greens, or assemble it as individual servings in small mason jars for a charming picnic or party option. You could even layer the salad ingredients in a trifle dish to highlight the colorful components before tossing at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spinach strawberry salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. To maintain freshness, store the dressing separately and dress the salad just before serving again. This prevents the greens from wilting and strawberries from becoming soggy.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing will damage the spinach and strawberries’ texture. The dressing can be frozen in an ice cube tray if needed, then thawed for later use, but fresh ingredients shine brightest in this recipe.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, no-cook salad, reheating is not recommended. Enjoy it chilled to experience the crisp textures and bright flavors at their best.
FAQs
Can I substitute the feta cheese in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap feta with goat cheese for a slightly tangier flavor or use a plant-based cheese alternative if you’re making it vegan. The creamy texture is key to contrast the fresh fruit and crisp spinach.
Is it possible to make the salad completely vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan version, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing to keep it plant-based while still sweet and flavorful.
How long does the balsamic poppy seed dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a gathering?
It’s best to prep the components separately—the spinach, strawberries, nuts, and cheese—and make the dressing ahead of time. Combine everything and dress the salad right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
What other nuts work well instead of pecans?
Walnuts are a fantastic alternative to candied pecans, offering a similar crunch and flavor profile. Toasted almonds or pistachios also add a nice twist if you want to experiment.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a salad that’s both simple and sophisticated, and the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Whether you’re brightening up a weekday lunch or impressing guests at your next dinner, this fresh and flavorful salad is sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you might just find it’s your new go-to for celebrating seasonal produce!
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Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad tossed with a tangy and sweet Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. This easy no-cook recipe combines fresh baby spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy candied nuts, creamy feta cheese, and optional avocado slices, making it a perfect summer salad that is both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- â…“ cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- â…“ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and candied pecans or walnuts. If using avocado, add the sliced avocado on top carefully to keep it fresh.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the poppy seeds, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Toss and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Gently toss all ingredients together to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy fresh flavors and textures.
Notes
- This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon for a more substantial meal.
- To make this salad vegan, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup.
- The balsamic poppy seed dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it convenient for meal prep.
