Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad Poppy Seed Dressing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 5 ounces baby spinach; 1 cup fresh strawberries; 1 large ripe avocado; ⅓ cup roasted almonds; ¼ cup red onion; ½ cup feta cheese; 6-minute eggs (for serving, optional); ½ cup avocado oil; ¼ cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar); 3 tbsp pure maple syrup (or honey); 1 small shallot (minced); 1 tsp dijon mustard (or whole grain mustard); 1 tbsp poppy seeds; ½ tsp sea salt; 2 tsp mayonnaise (optional)

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There’s something magical about the combination of flavors and textures in a Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. I remember the first time I decided to throw together this delightful dish for a summer picnic. The sun was shining, and fresh strawberries were just coming into season. I picked a basket full from the local farmers’ market, their vibrant red hue promising the perfect sweetness. As I gathered my ingredients, I couldn’t help but think of how well spinach complements the juicy strawberries. Together, they create a refreshing base for a salad that’s not only beautiful but packed with nutrients.

The poppy seed dressing adds a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that ties everything together. As I mixed the dressing, the aroma of tangy vinegar and nutty oil filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. This salad has become my go-to for gatherings, and each time I prepare it, the compliments pour in. It’s not just a side salad; it’s a centerpiece of conversation and joy that brings everyone together.

Whether I’m serving it at a casual brunch or a refined dinner, the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing never fails to impress. It’s a dish that celebrates the flavors of spring and reminds me of sunny days spent outdoors. Let me share this wonderful recipe with you and hopefully inspire you to create your own memories with it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
28 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
8 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Peeler, Whisk, Blender, Cutting Board, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot

Why This Strawberry Spinach Salad Poppy Seed Dressing Is So Good

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing stands out for so many reasons! Here are a few that truly make it shine:

1. Fresh Flavors

The combination of crisp spinach and ripe strawberries creates an explosion of fresh flavors. Each bite is a reminder of a sunny day, making it the perfect choice for spring and summer meals.

2. Nutritional Powerhouse

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Spinach is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, while strawberries are loaded with antioxidants. Together, they provide health benefits that are hard to beat.

3. Versatile Dish

This salad can be enjoyed in countless ways! It makes a great side dish for grilled meats, or you can add protein like grilled chicken or tofu to turn it into a satisfying main course. The possibilities are endless!

4. Quick and Easy

With minimal prep time, this salad is quick to whip up. Whether you’re preparing a lunch for yourself or a feast for friends, it’s a go-to recipe that doesn’t demand too much time in the kitchen.

5. Beautiful Presentation

The vibrant colors of the salad are undeniably appealing. The contrast of bright red strawberries, dark green spinach, and creamy feta cheese not only makes the dish inviting but also adds to the overall dining experience.

6. Customizable

Feel free to make this salad your own! You can easily swap out ingredients or add things like nuts or seeds for added crunch. Each variation can bring a new twist to this classic dish.

Recipe Ingredients for Strawberry Spinach Salad Poppy Seed Dressing

The beauty of this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. From the fresh greens to the sweet strawberries, this salad is designed to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

5 ounces baby spinach or spring greens
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1 large ripe avocado, sliced or diced
⅓ cup roasted almonds
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup feta cheese crumbles
6-minute eggs for serving, optional
½ cup avocado oil
¼ cup rice vinegar or white vinegar
3 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey
1 small shallot, minced
1 tsp dijon or whole grain mustard
1 tbsp poppy seeds
½ tsp sea salt
2 tsp mayonnaise, optional

Instructions for Strawberry Spinach Salad Poppy Seed Dressing

Making this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying each step is. Let’s get started!

Begin by cooking the eggs. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the eggs using a slotted spoon. Set a timer for 6 minutes for a soft-boiled egg or 10 minutes for fully hard-boiled eggs. The shorter cooking time gives a creamy yolk ideal for salads.
Once the timer goes off, transfer the eggs to an ice bath immediately. This will stop the cooking process and make peeling easier. Allow them to chill while you prepare the rest of the salad.
While the eggs are cooling, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) if you’re toasting the almonds. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 8 to 11 minutes. Stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting. The goal is a light golden color and a nutty aroma.
Prepare the dressing by combining the avocado oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, minced shallot, dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and sea salt. Blend or whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste it, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
In a large serving bowl, add the baby spinach, chopped strawberries, diced avocado, toasted almonds, sliced red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients and toss until everything is well coated. Be gentle to avoid bruising the spinach.
Finally, peel the eggs and slice them in half. Arrange the salad in big bowls and top with the soft-boiled eggs. If you prefer hard-boiled eggs, chop them into pieces and sprinkle them over the salad.
Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors in your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing!

Things Worth Knowing

Egg Cooking Tip: For the perfect soft-boiled egg, it’s essential to place it in ice water immediately after cooking. This halts the cooking process and makes peeling much easier.
Salad Dressing Tip: If you have leftover dressing, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to shake it well before using, as the ingredients may separate.
Toast the Nuts: Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch. Always watch them closely to prevent burning.
Storage: If you have leftovers, consider storing the salad without the dressing. This will keep the spinach fresh for longer, and you can dress it just before serving.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are many fun ways to customize your Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Add Protein: To make this salad even heartier, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu. It will turn it into a complete meal!
Fruit Variations: Try adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. Each fruit will bring its unique twist to the salad.
Nut Alternatives: If you’re allergic to almonds, feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans. Each will add a lovely crunch.
Cheese Options: Swap feta cheese for goat cheese or skip the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
Seasonal Touch: You can incorporate seasonal produce, like apples in the fall or citrus in the winter, to give the salad an interesting seasonal flair.
Make it Vegan: To make a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese and replace the honey with maple syrup.
Experiment with Dressings: While the poppy seed dressing is delightful, feel free to try a balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing for a change.

Serving This Strawberry Spinach Salad Poppy Seed Dressing

Serving the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is as delightful as preparing it. Here are some ideas to help you serve it to perfection:

Perfect for Lunch: This salad makes for an excellent light lunch. Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.
Ideal for Picnics: Pack this salad for your next outdoor gathering. It travels well and can be enjoyed cold, making it a picnic favorite.
Great Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish during summer barbecues. The fresh flavors complement grilled meats beautifully.
Elegant Dinner Option: This salad works well as a starter for a more formal dinner. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors will impress your guests.
Seasonal Pairings: In spring, consider pairing it with asparagus or peas. In summer, a light lemon or herb-infused protein works wonderfully.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container and keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Brunch Delight: This salad is perfect for brunch gatherings. Serve it alongside pancakes or omelets for a balanced meal.

FAQ

The Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a vibrant combination of fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. The mix of sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds combined with the tangy dressing makes it a delightful and nutritious choice. It’s perfect for warm weather, bringing a refreshing touch to any meal.

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the spinach remains crisp and the flavors are fresh. You can store the salad without dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day.

There are countless variations you can explore with the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. You can add grilled chicken or tofu for protein, swap the feta cheese for goat cheese, or experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans. Adding other fruits, such as blueberries or mandarin oranges, can also create exciting new flavors!

Yes! To make the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and replace the honey with maple syrup. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising your dietary preferences.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and colorful ingredients that brighten up any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful combination of sweet and savory for yourself. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a nourishing lunch, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your kitchen too!