Spinach Strawberry Salad: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Delight

There’s something truly magical about a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate! The combination of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and that tangy dressing creates a refreshing experience that’s hard to resist. I’ve made this salad countless times, and each time it feels like a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispness of the spinach, the sweetness of the strawberries, and the crunch of toasted pecans all dance together in a delightful medley.

Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free pleasure. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it always impresses guests. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing taste. Trust me, this salad is a staple in my kitchen, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite for so many!

There’s something truly magical about a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate! The combination of fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and that tangy dressing creates a refreshing experience that’s hard to resist. I’ve made this salad countless times, and each time it feels like a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispness of the spinach, the sweetness of the strawberries, and the crunch of toasted pecans all dance together in a delightful medley.

Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free pleasure. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it always impresses guests. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing taste. Trust me, this salad is a staple in my kitchen, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite for so many!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ¾ cup raw pecans: These nuts add a delightful crunch and a rich flavor. You’ll toast them for extra depth!
• ½ small red onion: Thinly sliced to add a sharp yet sweet bite to the salad. Soaking them helps mellow the flavor.
• 10 ounces fresh baby spinach: The star of the show! Look for crisp, vibrant leaves for the best texture.
• 1 quart strawberries: Hulled and quartered (about 1 pound). Sweet and juicy, they bring a pop of color and sweetness!
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese: This tangy cheese adds creaminess and a lovely saltiness that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar: A key ingredient in the dressing, it adds a tangy sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: This brings richness to the dressing and helps emulsify all the tasty components.
• 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds: They give a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to the dressing.
• 1 ½ tablespoons honey: This natural sweetener complements the balsamic vinegar beautifully, enhancing the dressing’s flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle zing and helps emulsify the dressing for a smooth finish.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the salad.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: A pinch adds warmth and depth to the dressing.

These ingredients come together in a harmonious blend that’s not only delicious but also incredibly refreshing. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality items for the best results!

How to Prepare Spinach Strawberry Salad

Let’s dive into the delightful process of preparing this Spinach Strawberry Salad! With each step, you’ll see how easy it is to create this vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

First things first, let’s get those pecans toasted! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the raw pecans in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet. You’ll want to bake them for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should become fragrant and turn a lovely golden brown inside. It’s amazing how toasting enhances their flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Onions

While the pecans are toasting, let’s prepare the onions. Take your thinly sliced red onion and soak them in a bowl of cold water. This step is super important because it helps mellow their sharp flavor. Just let them soak for about 10 minutes while you work on the next steps!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Now, onto the star of the salad: the dressing! In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk it well until everything is nicely combined and smooth. This dressing is tangy, sweet, and oh-so-delicious!

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once your pecans are toasted and your onions are soaked, it’s time to assemble the salad! In a large serving bowl, place the fresh baby spinach and add in those beautiful quartered strawberries. Drain the red onion and toss it in too. Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to coat. You want to make sure every leaf gets a bit of that glorious dressing!

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Finally, let’s add those finishing touches! Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and toss in the chopped pecans. Give it one last gentle toss to combine everything, and voilà! You’re ready to serve this gorgeous salad immediately, with any leftover dressing on the side for those who want a little extra drizzle. Enjoy every bite of this refreshing, flavor-packed dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes:

• Calories: 249
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Cholesterol: 17mg

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal or side dish!

Tips for Success

Creating the perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing is all about attention to detail and timing. First, make sure to use the freshest ingredients you can find! Crisp spinach and ripe strawberries are essential for that vibrant flavor and texture. I always recommend visiting your local farmers’ market if possible – the difference is incredible!

When it comes to the dressing, whisk it just before serving to keep that fresh taste. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or balancing it with extra balsamic vinegar, depending on your taste preferences.

For a beautiful presentation, layer the salad ingredients rather than tossing them all together at once. This way, your guests can see the colorful strawberries and creamy feta. And remember, dress the salad right before serving to avoid sogginess! If you’re preparing it in advance, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy!

Variations of Spinach Strawberry Salad

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless ways to personalize your Spinach Strawberry Salad! Try adding slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture or toss in some blueberries for an additional burst of sweetness. You can also swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. If you’re looking for protein, grilled chicken or shrimp makes a lovely addition, turning this salad into a satisfying meal. For a touch of zest, consider adding mandarin oranges or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut. The possibilities are as delicious as they are diverse!

Serving Suggestions

This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a refreshing lunch, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light yet satisfying meal. It also complements hearty entrees like roasted pork or steak, adding a vibrant contrast to the plate. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it with a charcuterie board filled with assorted cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread. And don’t forget, it makes a delightful accompaniment to any picnic spread, bringing a touch of elegance to outdoor dining!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftover Spinach Strawberry Salad, simply place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to 4 days, but remember, it’s best to store the dressing separately to prevent the greens from wilting. If you have any leftover dressing, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy your salad again, there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a good toss with some fresh greens and a splash of dressing to refresh the flavors. Enjoy the vibrant taste just as you did on the first day!

FAQ Section

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components of the Spinach Strawberry Salad ahead of time, but I recommend waiting to dress it until just before serving. This keeps the spinach crisp and fresh. You can chop the strawberries and onions and even toast the pecans in advance. Just store everything separately in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives to feta cheese, you’ve got some great options! Crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata can provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. For a vegan option, try using crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast to mimic that delightful feta taste.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Spinach Strawberry Salad is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients used are gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without any worries. Just be sure to check the labels on your balsamic vinegar and any other packaged items to ensure they’re gluten-free.

How long can I store the dressing?

You can store the balsamic poppy seed dressing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember to give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate. It’s best to keep it in an airtight container for maximum freshness!

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Adding protein not only makes the salad more filling but also enhances the overall flavor. Consider grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. These additions pair beautifully with the sweet strawberries and tangy dressing, creating a well-rounded meal!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print