There’s something truly magical about a salad that blends fresh, vibrant greens with the natural sweetness of fruit and a silky homemade dressing. The Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, colorful, and nutrient-packed dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Fresh baby spinach forms the base, while ripe, juicy strawberries add a pop of sweetness. Tossed with crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a tangy-sweet poppy seed dressing, this salad balances textures and flavors beautifully.

This dish is not just visually stunning but also incredibly versatile — perfect as a light lunch, an elegant starter for dinner, or even a festive side dish for holidays and gatherings.

Why We Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Flavor Balance – Sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, tangy dressing, and crunchy toppings make every bite irresistible.
2. Nutritious & Wholesome – Packed with vitamins A, C, iron, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s as healthy as it is delicious.
3. Versatile Dish – Works well as a side or a main dish by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
4. Visually Beautiful – The bright red strawberries against deep green spinach make this salad a feast for the eyes.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

If you’ve only ever had leafy green salads with heavy dressings, this one will change your mind. The homemade poppy seed dressing is creamy yet light, with the right mix of tangy and sweet flavors. This salad feels gourmet but takes only minutes to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or elegant dinner parties. It’s a dish that impresses without being complicated — a true crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Details:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~280 calories per serving (varies depending on toppings and cheese)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Salad, Side Dish, Main (if topped with protein)
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
• ½ cup candied pecans or walnuts (or plain roasted nuts)
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:

• ⅓ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil for milder flavor)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons honey (or sugar)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Quick Directions

1. Whisk together dressing ingredients until smooth and emulsified.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, onion, nuts, and cheese.
3. Drizzle with dressing just before serving and toss gently.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until creamy.
   • Set aside or refrigerate if making ahead.
2. Assemble the Salad:
   • Place spinach in a large salad bowl.
   • Layer sliced strawberries, red onions, and crumbled feta/goat cheese on top.
   • Sprinkle candied pecans or walnuts for crunch.
3. Dress & Toss:
   • Drizzle prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad.
   • Toss gently to combine, making sure every leaf is lightly coated.
4. Serve Immediately:
   • Plate and enjoy as a side or add protein for a complete meal.

How to Serve

• As a light lunch with a slice of crusty bread.
• As a side salad to grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• As part of a holiday spread for Easter, Mother’s Day, or summer picnics.

Tips for this Recipe:

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum flavor.
• Chill the salad ingredients for a refreshing bite.
• Add dressing just before serving to avoid soggy spinach.
• Toast the nuts lightly to enhance their crunch and flavor.

Variations:

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Fruit Swap: Use blueberries, raspberries, or apples instead of strawberries.
• Cheese Options: Try blue cheese or shredded mozzarella for a twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Freezing & Storage

• Salad: Best enjoyed fresh; spinach wilts quickly once dressed.
• Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
• Do Not Freeze salad or dressing — texture and flavor will be lost.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large salad bowl
• Small whisk or jar with lid (for dressing)
• Sharp knife and cutting board

FAQ:

Q1: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the fridge.

Q2: Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best, but thawed strawberries can work — just drain excess liquid.

Q3: How can I make this vegan?
Use maple syrup instead of honey and omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.

Q4: Can I meal prep this salad?
Yes! Prep ingredients separately and combine just before serving to keep spinach crisp.

Conclusion

The Spinach Salad with Strawberries and Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, wholesome, and versatile dish that combines fresh flavors with a touch of elegance. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. The combination of sweet strawberries, earthy spinach, creamy cheese, and nutty crunch with a tangy-sweet dressing makes this salad unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it as a side, a starter, or a main, this recipe is sure to brighten up your table and delight everyone who tastes it.