Strawberry-Spinach Poppy-Seed Salad

This Strawberry-Spinach Poppy-Seed Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish that effortlessly combines sweet, tangy, and savory elements in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a beautiful side for dinner, or a refreshing option for your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress. The fresh spinach provides a nutrient-packed base, while juicy strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness. Red onions bring a subtle sharpness, and crumbled feta cheese offers a creamy, salty contrast. Topped with crunchy sunflower and poppy seeds and drizzled with a luscious honey apple cider vinegar dressing, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Strawberry-Spinach Poppy-Seed Salad stands out because it’s incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers a gourmet touch that delights the senses. The combination of ingredients feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it ideal for those who want to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the poppy seed dressing is a classic favorite that adds a unique, slightly nutty and tangy character to the salad.

If you love salads that are colorful, fresh, and full of texture, this one will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal strawberries in a way that complements their natural sweetness instead of overpowering it. For a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, this salad hits the mark.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup poppy seeds
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Strawberry-Spinach Poppy-Seed Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the fresh spinach leaves. Make sure they’re completely dry to avoid a soggy salad. Hull and slice the strawberries into thin, even pieces to ensure every bite has a burst of sweetness. Thinly slice the red onion for a mild yet sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients. Crumble the feta cheese and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Seeds

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sunflower seeds until they’re golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove from heat and mix in the poppy seeds, allowing them to warm slightly in the residual heat. Toasting the seeds enhances their flavor and adds an irresistible crunch.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until fully combined and emulsified. The honey balances the tanginess of the vinegar, creating a smooth and slightly sweet dressing that ties the salad together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted seed mixture on top for added texture and flavor. Give it one final gentle toss or leave the seeds on top for a more striking presentation.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this salad immediately for the freshest flavor and crunch. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own for a light meal. This salad is also an excellent companion to dishes like a Grilled Watermelon Feta Summer Salad for a full spread of fresh, vibrant flavors.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to dry the spinach thoroughly after washing to keep the salad from becoming watery.
• Toast the seeds just before assembling the salad for maximum crunch and flavor.
• Adjust the honey in the dressing to suit your preference – add a bit more for a sweeter dressing or less for a tarter finish.
• If you prefer less onion sharpness, soak the sliced red onions in cold water for 10 minutes before draining and adding them to the salad.
• Use a salad spinner to quickly dry leafy greens effectively.

Variations and Customizations

• Cheese Swap: Replace feta with goat cheese or halloumi for a different flavor profile.
• Nut Alternatives: Use toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts instead of sunflower seeds for a richer nutty taste.
• Greens Mix: Mix fresh arugula or kale with spinach for added texture and a peppery kick.
• Fruit Additions: Add sliced peaches, blueberries, or mandarin oranges for extra bursts of flavor.
• Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and replace honey with maple syrup to make a vegan-friendly version.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately to maintain freshness. Place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the dressing in a sealed jar. When ready to eat, give the dressing a good shake or stir and toss with the salad. Consume within 1-2 days for best texture and flavor, as the spinach can wilt and the strawberries may become mushy over time.

FAQ

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It’s best to prepare the components separately and toss everything together just before serving. This helps keep the spinach crisp and the strawberries fresh.

What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?

You can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice as alternatives if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand. Both will maintain the tangy brightness of the dressing.

Is it possible to make this salad nut-free?

Absolutely! This recipe uses sunflower seeds, which are seed-based and not nuts, making it naturally nut-free. However, always double-check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

How can I make the dressing thicker?

To thicken the dressing slightly, whisk in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or use a bit more honey to add body and richness.

Conclusion

This Strawberry-Spinach Poppy-Seed Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. With its juicy strawberries, crisp spinach, tangy feta, and crunchy seeds, all brought together by a sweet and tangy dressing, it’s a versatile salad perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch or serving it as a stunning side dish, this recipe is packed with freshness and vibrant taste that’s hard to resist. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite salad!

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