This fresh spinach and strawberry salad is a burst of color and flavor! With juicy strawberries and crunchy nuts, it’s a delicious way to enjoy your greens.
The sweet balsamic poppy seed dressing is a real treat! Every time I make this salad, I can’t resist extra helpings. Perfect for a sunny day or a cozy dinner party!
I love that this salad comes together quickly! Just toss everything in a bowl, drizzle on the dressing, and it’s ready to impress. You won’t regret making it over and over!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star here! You can also use baby spinach for a more tender texture. If you want to switch it up, try arugula for a peppery kick.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with sliced apples, pears, or even mandarin oranges for a fruity twist!
Red Onion: I love the bite that thinly sliced red onion gives. If it’s too strong for you, consider using green onions or skipping it altogether.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a nice tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan feta or even avocado for creaminess without cheese.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch, but you can replace these with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if nut allergies are a concern.
How Can I Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
The dressing is what ties all the salad ingredients together. Start by whisking balsamic vinegar with olive oil for a rich base. The poppy seeds add a unique texture and flavor, making it special. For sweetness, honey or maple syrup can balance the tanginess of vinegar.
- Mix balsamic vinegar and olive oil in a bowl until well combined.
- Add poppy seeds, sweetener, and seasoning. Adjust honey/maple syrup to your taste for sweetness.
- Whisk until everything is blended smoothly, enhancing the creamy look.
Drizzle over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Toss gently and enjoy the beautiful medley of flavors!
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad With Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped (optional)
For the Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a short time washing and slicing your ingredients and another few minutes whipping up the dressing. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a light meal or side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
Start by taking a large salad bowl and adding the washed and dried spinach leaves. Make sure they are adequately dried so your salad doesn’t get soggy.
2. Add the Fresh Toppings:
Next, slice your strawberries and add them on top of the spinach. If you’re using, sprinkle the thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts or pecans over the salad. These additions will bring flavor and texture to your dish!
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix your dressing ingredients. Combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, and honey or maple syrup. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Dress the Salad:
Just before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the balsamic poppy seed dressing over the salad. This way, the spinach stays fresh and crisp!
5. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to combine everything, making sure the dressing is evenly distributed. Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful blend of fresh flavors and textures in your salad!
Can I Use Different Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! If spinach isn’t your favorite, feel free to use mixed greens, arugula, or even kale as a base. Just keep in mind that tougher greens like kale might need a little extra massaging with the dressing to soften them up before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
To keep your salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid soggy greens. You can also prepare the ingredients ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Can I Substitute Other Nuts or Leave Them Out?
Definitely! You can swap walnuts or pecans for sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or even pumpkin seeds based on your preference. If you’d prefer to omit the nuts altogether, that’s perfectly fine too; the salad will still be delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, try using red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor twist. You might want to adjust the sweetness slightly, so taste and adjust the honey or maple syrup as needed!
