Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Introduction

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is the perfect refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of feta cheese. This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Strawberry Spinach Salad and explore what makes it so special.

From the juicy strawberries to the crunchy pecans, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a truly unforgettable salad. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory combinations or just looking for a healthy and delicious meal, this Strawberry Spinach Salad is sure to hit the spot.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the perfect Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing, from the ingredients and instructions to tips and tricks for getting the best flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The unique combination of strawberries, spinach, and feta cheese makes this salad a standout. The ease of preparation is also a major plus – with just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time. And let’s not forget the poppyseed dressing, which adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the dish.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a recipe that’s perfect for any time of year, but it’s especially great for summer when fresh strawberries are in season. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing for yourself?

Ingredients

4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
2 cups sliced strawberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup poppyseed dressing ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Feta cheese and pecans are two ingredients that can be substituted in this recipe if needed. For feta cheese, you can try using goat cheese or parmesan cheese instead. Both of these cheeses have a similar tanginess to feta and will work well in the salad.

For pecans, you can try using walnuts or almonds instead. Both of these nuts have a similar crunch to pecans and will add a nice texture to the salad.

It’s also worth noting that you can use fresh strawberries or frozen strawberries in this recipe. If you’re using frozen strawberries, just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad.

Equipment Needed

To make this salad, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment, including a salad spinner, cutting board, knife, large bowl, and whisk. These tools will help you prepare the ingredients and assemble the salad with ease.

Here are the equipment needed in bullet points:

Salad spinner
Cutting board
Knife
Large bowl
Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat nothing as there is no oven-based cooking required for this recipe.
Wash the spinach leaves in cold water, then dry them thoroughly with a salad spinner or paper towels.
Hull and slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
Combine the sliced strawberries and spinach leaves in a large bowl.
Whisk together the poppyseed dressing ingredients, but since the ingredients are not specified, assume a basic vinaigrette with oil, acid, and poppy seeds, and whisk until well combined.
Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the strawberry and spinach mixture.
Toss the salad gently to coat the ingredients with the dressing.
Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional sliced strawberries if desired.

Visual Guide & Tips

As you’re preparing the salad, be sure to wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any excess moisture. This will help the salad stay fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.

When slicing the strawberries, try to make the slices as thin as possible so that they’re easy to bite into. You can also try slicing them into wedges or halves if you prefer.

When whisking together the poppyseed dressing ingredients, be sure to whisk until they’re well combined and the dressing is smooth. This will help the flavors meld together and create a delicious and creamy dressing.

Pro Tips & Tricks

One of the most common mistakes people make when making this salad is over-dressing it. To avoid this, be sure to drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss it gently to coat the ingredients.

Another tip is to use fresh strawberries and fresh spinach for the best flavor. This will help bring out the natural sweetness of the strawberries and the earthiness of the spinach.

Here are some additional tips in bullet points:

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor
Don’t over-dress the salad
Use fresh strawberries and spinach for the best flavor

Serving Suggestions/Storage/Variations

This salad is perfect for serving as a light lunch or dinner, and it’s also great for potlucks and picnics. You can garnish it with additional sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.

To store the salad, simply place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep it chilled until serving. You can also make the poppyseed dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Here are some variations you can try:

Add grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein
Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or parmesan
Try using different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Here is the approximate nutritional information for this salad:

Calories: 190 kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 10g
Fat: 12g
Sugar: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the poppyseed dressing ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the poppyseed dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What can I substitute for feta cheese?

A: You can try using goat cheese or parmesan cheese instead of feta cheese. Both of these cheeses have a similar tanginess to feta and will work well in the salad. For more information on cheese substitution, check out our Spinach Parmesan Pasta recipe.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries?

A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries. Just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad. If you’re looking for more strawberry recipes, be sure to check out our Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe.

Q: How long does the salad stay fresh?

A: The salad will stay fresh for up to 24 hours when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the salad?

A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to the salad, such as grilled chicken or salmon, to make it more substantial. For some inspiration, check out our One Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies recipe.

Q: Is the salad gluten-free?

A: Yes, the salad is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.

Conclusion

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a delicious and refreshing salad that’s perfect for any time of year. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing for yourself? Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes if you make it!

Thanks for reading, and happy cooking!