Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Delight

Are you ready to brighten your table with a delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad? This dish combines fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and a tangy poppy seed dressing that dances on your taste buds. You'll love how simple it is to prepare and how beautifully it shines at any meal or gathering. Dive in to discover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips for making this salad a star!

Ingredients

Fresh Produce

- 6 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

Fresh produce makes this salad pop. Baby spinach is the base. It adds a soft, leafy texture. Strawberries bring a sweet, juicy burst. They add both color and flavor. Red onion gives a sharp, crunchy bite. Together, they create a fresh and vibrant mix.

Dairy

- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Feta cheese adds a creamy touch. Its salty taste balances the sweetness of the strawberries. This cheese also brings a nice texture to the salad. It makes each bite rich and satisfying.

Nuts and Seeds

- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted

- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Walnuts add crunch and nutrition. Toasting them enhances their flavor. Poppy seeds sprinkle on top for a unique look. They also add a subtle nutty flavor. Both ingredients give the salad a delightful texture.

Dressing Components

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

- 2 tablespoons honey

- Salt and pepper to taste

The dressing ties everything together. Olive oil provides a smooth base. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick. Honey sweetens the mix and balances the flavors. Salt and pepper enhance every bite. This dressing makes the salad shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dressing

First, grab a small bowl. In it, whisk together these items:

- 1/4 cup olive oil

- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

- 2 tablespoons honey

- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

- A pinch of salt and pepper

Whisk until the mix is smooth and well combined. Set it aside to let the flavors blend and marinate for a bit. This helps the dressing taste even better when you pour it on the salad.

Assembling the Salad

Now, take a large salad bowl. In this bowl, combine:

- 6 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

- 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted

Gently mix these fresh ingredients together. They should look bright and colorful. Once mixed, drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the top. Use just the right amount to coat everything nicely.

Final Touches

Next, toss the salad gently with your hands or a large spoon. This ensures that every bite is filled with flavor. Finally, sprinkle 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese on top. It adds a creamy texture and a salty kick to the salad. Serve it right away for the best taste!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Freshness

To enjoy the best flavors, choose ripe strawberries. Look for bright red berries with no green spots. They should feel firm but slightly soft. Wash the strawberries gently under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Store them in the fridge for a few days.

For spinach, pick fresh baby leaves. They should be bright green and crisp. Rinse the spinach in cold water to remove dirt. Spin or pat dry before using. Store the spinach in a sealed bag with a paper towel inside. This keeps it fresh for longer.

Dressing Storage

To store poppy seed dressing, place it in a sealed jar in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for about a week. Shake it well before each use, as ingredients may separate. If the dressing is too thick, add a bit of water or more olive oil. Mix until you reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or salmon. Both add protein and make it a full meal. For gatherings, serve in a clear glass bowl. This showcases the bright colors of the salad. Garnish with extra feta and whole strawberries on top. This adds a nice touch and invites guests to dig in.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily change some ingredients in this salad. If you don't like feta cheese, try goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese. You can even use sliced avocado for a creamy touch. Instead of walnuts, you can use pecans or almonds. These swaps can add new tastes and textures.

Seasonal Adjustments

This salad shines with seasonal fruits. In spring, try adding fresh blueberries. In summer, peaches or raspberries work well. In fall, diced apples or pears can be great. You can also mix up the dressing. Add orange juice for a fruity twist or use balsamic vinegar for a richer taste. These changes keep the salad fresh and exciting.

Making it Vegan

To make this salad vegan, you can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. For cheese, use a plant-based feta or skip it altogether. You can make the dressing dairy-free by using a nut-based yogurt or just leave it out. This way, you keep the flavor without any animal products.

Storage Info

Salad Storage

To store leftover salad, place it in a sealed container. Keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 1 to 2 days. The spinach may wilt, but the taste remains good. If you want the salad to last longer, keep the dressing separate. This way, the salad stays crisp.

Dressing Storage

Store the poppy seed dressing in a jar or bottle. Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness. It lasts about one week when stored well. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider making smaller batches. Homemade dressing tastes best when fresh.

Freezing Options

You can freeze the salad, but it may change in texture. The spinach can become mushy once thawed. Instead, freeze the dressing only. It freezes well and can last up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before using. This way, you keep the flavors fresh for your next meal.

FAQs

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the salad ahead. Just prepare all the ingredients. Keep the dressing separate until right before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crisp. If you mix it too early, the spinach wilts.

What can I serve with Strawberry Spinach Salad?

This salad pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes great with a hearty soup or a sandwich. The flavors mix well with a light meal.

How do I keep the salad from wilting?

To keep the salad fresh, store the spinach dry in the fridge. Use a salad spinner to remove water. Also, keep the dressing in a jar. Add it only when you are ready to eat. This prevents sogginess.

Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Yes, you can add more fruits. Blueberries or mandarin oranges work well. They add extra flavor and color to your dish.

Is there a way to make the dressing lighter?

You can use less oil in the dressing. Try adding more vinegar or water to thin it out. This keeps the taste but reduces calories.

What if I don’t have walnuts?

If you don’t have walnuts, try pecans or almonds. They will add a nice crunch as well. You can also skip nuts if allergies are a concern.

Can I use another cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella can be good swaps. They will change the taste but still taste great. Choose what you love most!

This blog post covered how to make a vibrant Strawberry Spinach Salad. We explored the fresh produce, dairy, nuts, and dressing you need. I shared steps for making the dressing and assembling the salad. Tips for freshness and variations add fun to your dish. You can enjoy this salad with many meals or make it ahead. Whether you keep it simple or switch ingredients, this salad will please anyone. Try making it, and savor the mix of flavors!