Strawberry and Spinach Salad

The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and your taste buds are begging for something fresh and vibrant. Enter the Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing a dish so delightful that even your picky cousin who only eats plain pasta will be asking for seconds. Imagine juicy strawberries bursting with sweetness mingling with crisp spinach leaves, all drizzled in a dreamy poppy seed dressing that’s like sunshine on your plate. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to tickle your senses.

I remember the first time I served this salad at a summer barbecue. Friends were lounging in the sun when I brought out this colorful creation. Their eyes widened like kids in a candy store everyone couldn’t resist digging in! It quickly became the star of the show. Whether you’re hosting a fancy brunch or just want to feel like you’re dining in a five-star restaurant while wearing pajamas at home, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss.

I’ll never forget how my friend Mike declared this salad “a life-changer” after trying it for the first time at my housewarming party.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Baby Spinach: Select bright green leaves without any wilting; they provide a tender base for our salad.
• Juicy Strawberries: Look for plump berries that are deep red; their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spinach.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite; choose small onions for milder flavor.
• Poppy Seeds: These little seeds add crunch and visual appeal; try toasting them slightly for extra flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness; it enhances every bite.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Its tangy acidity brightens up the dressing; opt for organic if possible.
• Honey: Local honey adds natural sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate flavors; use freshly ground pepper for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare yourself for an adventure through textures and flavors as we whip up this delightful dish!

Gather Your Ingredients: Assemble all your ingredients on the kitchen counter nothing beats the joy of seeing them come together.

Wash Your Greens: Rinse baby spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt or grit. Pat dry gently using paper towels or a salad spinner.

Slice Strawberries and Onions: Hull strawberries and slice them into thin rounds. Thinly slice red onion into half-moons; this brings out its pretty color and flavor.

Prepare Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and poppy seeds until emulsified. Taste-test it should balance sweet and tangy!

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and onions. Drizzle on the dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp.

Serve Immediately!: Plate up generous servings of your beautiful salad! Watch as everyone dives into this fresh masterpiece just be prepared to share!

Enjoy every moment of preparing this delightful Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. It’s not just food; it’s joy served on a plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by washing your spinach and strawberries thoroughly. Prepare the dressing while the salad ingredients dry to maintain freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or swap out spinach for arugula if you want a peppery kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Dress only before serving to keep it fresh.

I remember the first time I served this strawberry and spinach salad at a family gathering; my aunt practically dove into it, declaring it her new favorite dish!

FAQ

What can I substitute for poppy seed dressing?

You can use balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing instead.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

What other fruits pair well in this salad?

Blueberries and mandarin oranges also complement the flavors beautifully.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and crisp spinach, drizzled with a tangy dressing—perfect for summer gatherings or light dinners.

---

Ingredients

• Fresh Baby Spinach
• Juicy Strawberries
• Red Onion
• Poppy Seeds
• Olive Oil
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Honey
• Salt and Pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients on the counter.
2. Rinse baby spinach under cold water and pat dry.
3. Hull strawberries and slice them into thin rounds; thinly slice red onion.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and poppy seeds.
5. In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, and onions. Drizzle dressing over just before serving.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 145
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg