As I savored the first bite of my Spinach Strawberry Salad, I was instantly transported to a sun-drenched picnic in springtime bliss. This vibrant salad, layered with fresh strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans, is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a delightful way to embrace the season. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also packs a nutritional punch that’s hard to resist. Whether you serve it as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch, this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing promises a burst of flavor in every bite. Ready to elevate your salad game and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive in!
Why is this salad a must-try?
Vibrant Colors: The medley of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and creamy feta creates a visual feast that’s just as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Zesty Dressing: The balsamic poppy seed dressing adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the ingredients, elevating every bite with a burst of flavor.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this tasty salad in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weekdays or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleasing: This Spinach Strawberry Salad is a hit at potlucks and gatherings, appealing to everyone from health enthusiasts to comfort food lovers.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from fresh ingredients, this salad not only delights your taste buds but also supports your health goals. For another refreshing option, you might want to check out the Herby Barley Salad with Butter-Basted Mushrooms.
Versatile: Easily customize it with proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, or try it with a different cheese. The possibilities are endless!
Spinach Strawberry Salad Ingredients
• Perfect components for a refreshing dish!
For the Salad
- Baby Spinach – A light and healthy base, fresh leaves provide a delightful crunch.
- Strawberries – Sweet and juicy, ensure they’re hulled and quartered for ease of eating.
- Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy note; opt for block-style for best texture.
- Pecans – Provide richness and a satisfying crunch; toast lightly to amplify flavor.
- Red Onion – Offers a sharp bite; soak in water beforehand to soften its intensity.
For the Dressing
- Balsamic Vinegar – The tangy star of the dressing; choose a quality balsamic for depth.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Brings richness to the dressing and helps emulsify; essential for flavor.
- Poppy Seeds – Adds a delicate crunch; these are signature in the dressing, enhancing texture.
- Honey – Provides natural sweetness, balancing the acidity of the vinegar; adjust to your taste.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces depth and spice to the dressing; also helps with emulsification.
- Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Classic seasonings; adjust to suit your flavor preferences.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them for 8–10 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly golden. This step enhances their flavor beautifully. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool before roughly chopping.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Whisk vigorously for about 1–2 minutes until the mixture is well-blended and slightly emulsified, creating a beautiful dressing for your Spinach Strawberry Salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, layer the fresh baby spinach, quartered strawberries, and soaked red onion. Drizzle half of the balsamic poppy seed dressing over the ingredients. Gently toss everything together for about 30 seconds, making sure the spinach and strawberries are well-coated for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Add Feta and Pecans
Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped toasted pecans into the salad mix. Take your time to combine these additions gently; you want to maintain the structure of the cheese and pecans for that delightful crunch. The elements will harmonize beautifully in the Spinach Strawberry Salad.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the vibrant salad to individual bowls or a large serving platter. For an inviting touch, serve the remaining balsamic poppy seed dressing on the side, allowing everyone to customize their flavor experience. This Spinach Strawberry Salad is best enjoyed fresh but is sure to impress at any gathering!
Variations & Substitutions for Spinach Strawberry Salad
Feel free to mix things up and tailor this salad to suit your taste buds!
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Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with toasted sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts. This swap makes the salad friendly for nut allergies while maintaining a tasty texture.
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Cheese Choices: Use goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile. Goat cheese brings a creamy tang, while blue cheese adds boldness.
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Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier version that transforms this salad into a satisfying main dish. The added protein will make it perfect for lunch or dinner!
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Berry Variety: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a new twist. Each berry brings its own unique burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with spinach.
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Sweetness Adjustments: Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option. It provides a similar sweetness and won’t alter the dressing’s flavors significantly.
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Zesty Spin: Add slices of avocado for creamy texture and richness. Avocado nicely complements the sweetness of the strawberries and enhances the overall salad experience.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. This could elevate your salad to new flavor heights, especially for those who love a bit of spice.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic touch that refreshes the salad. Herbs bring a different dimension of flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits beautifully.
With these simple variations, you can enjoy a new take on the classic Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing every time! And while you’re experimenting, don’t forget to check out this delightful Asian Cucumber Salad for another fresh and vibrant addition to your recipe repertoire.
Storage Tips for Spinach Strawberry Salad
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Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day for optimal freshness. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from wilting.
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Airtight Container: Use an airtight container to maintain the texture of the baby spinach and prevent moisture loss, ensuring your Spinach Strawberry Salad stays crunchy.
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Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh; however, if incorporating proteins like chicken, ensure they are heated thoroughly before serving.
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Fresh Ingredients: If you have leftover pecans or feta cheese, store them separately in airtight containers for a longer shelf life.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing and toast the pecans up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the pecans in a separate container at room temperature to maintain their crunch. The salad ingredients, like spinach and strawberries, can be washed and cut up to 24 hours before serving—just keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped ingredients, add the dressing, and toss gently for an effortless, vibrant meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it all at once!
What to Serve with Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Pair your vibrant salad with these delightful accompaniments to complete your meal and impress your guests.
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Grilled Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken adds a satisfying protein boost that perfectly complements the salad’s fresh ingredients.
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Herbed Quinoa: This fluffy and fragrant side adds a nutty flavor and a hearty texture, enriching your dining experience with wholesome grains.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or refreshing Pinot Grigio enhances the salad’s sweetness while providing a light and enjoyable pairing.
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Roasted Asparagus: Perfectly seasoned and tender asparagus brings earthy notes that contrast beautifully with the salad’s bright flavors.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like goat cheese or Brie can elevate your meal; their creaminess pairs wonderfully with the salad’s tangy feta.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, herb-infused garlic bread offers a comforting side that balances the lightness of the salad, making it an irresistible combo.
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Fresh Fruit Tart: A zesty dessert like a fruit tart can finish your meal on a sweet note, tying in the fruity elements of the salad seamlessly.
These pairings not only enhance the overall experience but also bring a symphony of flavors to your table. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Spinach Strawberry Salad
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always choose the freshest spinach and strawberries to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your Spinach Strawberry Salad.
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Perfectly Toasted Pecans: Keep a close eye on your pecans while toasting; they can burn quickly. Lightly toasted pecans add the perfect crunch and richness.
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Balancing Flavors: Adjust the honey in the dressing based on your taste preferences. A little more honey can balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar beautifully.
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Onion Soaking Trick: Soaking red onions in water before adding them to the salad mellows their sharpness, making them more enjoyable without overpowering the dish.
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Dress Last Minute: For the best texture and flavor, dress the salad just before serving. This keeps the spinach crisp and prevents it from wilting.
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Endless Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize your Spinach Strawberry Salad! Try different nuts, cheeses, or add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Choose strawberries that are bright red with a natural shine; avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as these may be overripe. Fresh strawberries should feel firm to the touch, and the green tops should still be vibrant and green.
How should I store leftover salad?
For best results, store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Be sure to keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from wilting. When ready to enjoy, drizzle the dressing on just before serving!
Can I freeze the Spinach Strawberry Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad as fresh greens and strawberries do not hold up well after freezing. If you’d like to freeze some components, consider just freezing the pecans in an airtight bag for up to 3 months and add them back fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the salad again.
What if my dressing separates?
No problem! It’s common for vinaigrettes to separate after standing. To remedy this, simply give the dressing a good whisk or shake just before using to re-emulsify it. For an even more stable dressing, you can add a bit more Dijon mustard, as it helps emulsify the mixture.
Is this salad suitable for people with nut allergies?
If you’re serving someone with nut allergies, absolutely substitute the pecans with toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free option that still delivers that delightful crunch. Also, double-check that your balsamic vinegar and mustard don’t contain any allergens.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To transform your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing into a satisfying main dish, consider adding protein options like grilled chicken or chickpeas. You could also throw in some quinoa or farro for added texture and heartiness!
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 8–10 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Whisk for 1–2 minutes until well-blended and slightly emulsified.
- In a large serving bowl, layer the fresh baby spinach, quartered strawberries, and soaked red onion. Drizzle half of the balsamic poppy seed dressing over the ingredients. Gently toss together for about 30 seconds until well-coated.
- Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped toasted pecans into the salad mix, maintaining the structure of the cheese and nuts.
- Transfer the salad to individual bowls or a serving platter. Serve the remaining dressing on the side for customization.
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