Strawberry spinach salad with poppyseed dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light meal.

This salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, enhanced by a creamy and tangy poppyseed dressing.

Here’s how to make it, along with some variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • Baby Spinach: 6-10 ounces, rinsed and dried
  • Strawberries: 1 pound (about 12 medium), hulled and sliced
  • Red Onion: ¼ cup, thinly sliced
  • Nuts: ½ cup (toasted pecans or sugared almonds)
  • Cheese: Optional, ½ cup crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese

For the Poppyseed Dressing

  • Canola Oil: ½ cup
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: ¼ cup
  • Sugar: 1/3 cup (or to taste)
  • Poppy Seeds: 1 tablespoon
  • Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons
  • Dried Minced Onion: 1½ teaspoons
  • Worcestershire Sauce: ¼ teaspoon
  • Paprika: ¼ teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until well combined. Alternatively, you can shake them in a jar with a lid for a few seconds until emulsified. Chill for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Assemble the Salad:
    • In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion.
    • Add the toasted nuts and cheese if using.
  3. Dress the Salad:
    • Pour the chilled poppyseed dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Serve Immediately:
    • Enjoy your fresh strawberry spinach salad as a side dish or a light meal!

Variations

  • Add Avocado: For creaminess, include diced avocado.
  • Coconut Bacon: For a unique twist, sprinkle some coconut bacon on top.
  • Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for varied texture.
  • Fruity Twist: Add other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges for extra flavor.

Tips

  • To keep the salad fresh if preparing in advance, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.

This strawberry spinach salad with poppyseed dressing is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. Enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering or as a refreshing meal on its own!

Similar Posts