Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppy Dressing Delight

Looking for a fresh and tasty salad that pops with flavor? Try my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppy Dressing! This easy, vibrant dish combines crunchy spinach, sweet strawberries, and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with a creamy poppy dressing you’ll love. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a healthy meal that impresses at any gathering. Let’s dive in and create your new favorite salad today!

Ingredients

List of Fresh Ingredients

– 4 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced

– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (or pecans)

– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For a fresh and tasty salad, start with these ingredients. Fresh baby spinach serves as the base. It adds a nice crunch and vibrant color. Strawberries bring sweetness and juiciness. Their bright red color makes the salad pop. Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that contrasts well with the sweet berries. Nuts like walnuts or pecans give a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. Finally, red onion adds a sharp flavor to balance the sweetness.

Dressing Ingredients

– 1/4 cup olive oil

– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

– Salt and pepper to taste

Next, let’s make the dressing. Olive oil forms the base, making it rich and smooth. Apple cider vinegar adds tanginess that brightens the salad. Honey brings a touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar. Poppy seeds contribute a lovely crunch and a unique flavor. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing pulls everything together, making each bite delightful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Salad Base

Add the fresh baby spinach to a large salad bowl. This will be our base. The spinach should be washed and dried first. Next, layer the sliced strawberries evenly over the spinach. The red color of the strawberries adds a nice touch.

Adding Toppings

Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the strawberries. The feta gives a rich, salty flavor. After that, incorporate the chopped walnuts and thinly sliced red onion evenly across the salad. The walnuts add crunch, while the onion gives a slight bite.

Making the Poppy Dressing

In a separate small bowl, prepare the poppy dressing. Whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing is light and bright. Drizzle it over the salad, using as much as you like. Gently toss the salad to mix all the ingredients. Be careful not to break the feta cheese too much. Serve immediately for the best taste!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Freshness

To start, washing and drying spinach well is key. Rinse the baby spinach in cold water. Use a salad spinner to remove excess water. This step keeps the leaves crisp. For strawberries, look for bright red color. Ripe strawberries should feel firm but not hard. Avoid any with white or green areas.

Perfecting the Dressing

When making the dressing, you may want it sweeter. Add more honey if needed. Taste it as you go; this helps find the perfect balance. To emulsify the dressing, whisk the olive oil and vinegar slowly. This way, they combine well. A steady hand helps create a smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. The flavors blend nicely together. Serve it cold for a refreshing taste. If you prefer, you can serve it at room temperature. Just make sure not to let it sit too long; freshness is key.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the cheese in your salad. Try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Or use mozzarella for a milder taste. If you want, swap walnuts with pecans or almonds. Each nut adds a different crunch and flavor.

Dressing Alternatives

If you want a different dressing, try balsamic vinaigrette. It pairs well with strawberries. You could also mix in herbs like basil or mint for fresh flavor. These herbs brighten the dish and add aroma.

Seasonal Variations

You can add other fruits to your salad. Try blueberries or raspberries for a mix of colors. In summer, peaches or nectarines work great too. For veggies, add cucumbers or bell peppers. They bring a nice crunch and extra nutrients.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. Layer each ingredient carefully. Avoid mixing the dressing with the salad until you are ready to eat. This helps keep the spinach crisp and the strawberries firm. Expect it to stay fresh for about 1 to 2 days in the fridge.

Reheating Tips

You should not reheat this salad. Reheating will make the spinach wilt and the strawberries mushy. Instead, enjoy it cold. This keeps all the flavors bright and fresh.

Preparing in Advance

You can prep ingredients ahead of time. Wash and dry the spinach and slice the strawberries. Store these in separate containers. You can also make the poppy dressing a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and keep it in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain its texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time. Just mix the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Store it in a jar with a lid. Keep it in the fridge for up to a week. When you are ready to use it, shake the jar to mix everything again.

What can I add for extra protein?

To add extra protein, consider these options:

– Grilled chicken for a hearty touch.

– Shrimp for a light and tasty addition.

– Chickpeas for a plant-based boost.

– Quinoa for a nutty flavor and texture.

These options will enhance your salad and keep you full longer.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free. All the ingredients, like spinach, strawberries, feta cheese, and nuts, do not contain gluten. This makes it a great choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Always check labels if you use store-bought items.

This salad combines fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and creamy feta. The dressing adds a sweet and tangy kick, making it a delight. You can customize it with different cheeses or nuts based on your taste. Store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Remember, prepping ahead saves time. Enjoy this healthy dish for lunch or a light dinner. With these tips, you’ll make a salad that impresses every tim