This vibrant and refreshing spinach and strawberry salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Packed with sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, and a tangy poppy seed dressing, it’s a healthy and delicious option that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, a side dish for a summer barbecue, or a healthy start to any meal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Required
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this beautiful and tasty salad.
For the Salad:
- 10 ounces fresh baby spinach
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to cook Spinach and Strawberry Salad?
Follow these simple steps to assemble your delicious salad.
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), poppy seeds, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts
Place the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, toasted nuts, and thinly sliced red onion.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Your Salad Questions Answered
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. However, you can prepare the components in advance. Wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries and onions, and make the dressing. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine when you’re ready to eat.
What other nuts or cheeses can I use?
This salad is very versatile! You can use almonds, pistachios, or even candied pecans for a different crunch. For cheese, blue cheese or shaved Parmesan would also be delicious alternatives to feta or goat cheese.
Can I use a different dressing?
A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice would also work well. If you’re short on time, a store-bought poppy seed or balsamic vinaigrette is a good option.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover dressed salad will become soggy. If you anticipate leftovers, it’s best to store the salad components and dressing separately. An undressed salad will keep in the refrigerator for a day or two.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great salad is fresh, high-quality ingredients. Use ripe, sweet strawberries and crisp, fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overdress: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed. You want to coat the ingredients, not drown them.
- Add Protein: To make this salad a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Get Creative: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, cucumber, or blueberries to customize your salad.
