If you love a salad that’s fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is going to be your new favorite!
There’s something about the combination of juicy strawberries, crisp spinach, and crunchy pecans that just works. And that creamy homemade poppy seed dressing? Absolute perfection. Whether you’re serving this as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or even at a summer gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Light: Perfect for a warm day or when you need something refreshing.
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes—no cooking required!
- Sweet and Savory Balance: The juicy strawberries and honey dressing complement the sharpness of the red onion and the crunch of the pecans.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish or topped with grilled chicken for a fuller meal.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Salad:
- Baby spinach: Fresh, tender leaves provide the perfect base.
- Strawberries: Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness without overpowering.
- Pecans: Adds a delicious crunch—walnuts or almonds can work too!
- Feta cheese: Creamy, tangy, and the perfect contrast to the sweet berries.
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- Olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing for a smooth, light texture.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brightens up the flavors and adds a subtle tang.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness to balance the acidity.
- Poppy seeds: A must for that classic, delicate crunch.
- Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.
Pro Tip:
To make this salad extra special, toast the pecans in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes! It enhances the nuttiness and makes them extra crunchy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add the baby spinach. Top with sliced strawberries, red onion, pecans, and crumbled feta.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the salad ingredients but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent wilting.
- Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Fruit Swap: Swap strawberries for peaches or blueberries for a fun variation.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Make It Vegan: Substitute honey with maple syrup and omit the cheese.
- Pair It With: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a chilled glass of white wine.
- Add More Crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or candied nuts for variety.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Keep the salad ingredients and dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
How long does the dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using!
Can I use a store-bought dressing?
Of course! A high-quality poppy seed dressing or balsamic vinaigrette would be a great alternative.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup pecans (toasted, if desired)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced strawberries, red onion, pecans, and crumbled feta.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This is the kind of salad that makes you feel like you’re eating something special—even on a busy weeknight. Try it, and don’t forget to snap a pic and tag #TheKitchensAid so I can see your delicious creations!