If you’re craving a refreshing and vibrant salad that feels both light and indulgent, the Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful salad brings together the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the peppery crispness of spinach, and the subtle zing of red onion, all beautifully balanced by a creamy, tangy poppy seed dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a stunning side for dinner, bringing color and flavor to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a vital role in creating a salad that bursts with freshness, texture, and flavor. From the leafy crunch of spinach to the sweet juiciness of strawberries, and the creamy zing of the homemade poppy seed dressing, every component is essential.
- Fresh Spinach: Provides a tender, nutrient-rich base that’s vibrant and full of life.
- Juicy Strawberries: Add a naturally sweet burst that pairs beautifully with the greens.
- Poppy Seeds: Offer a delicate crunch and subtle nuttiness in the dressing.
- Red Onion: Brings a mild sharpness that cuts through the sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the dressing without heaviness.
- Honey: Adds a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the tart apple cider vinegar.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Introduces a subtle acidity that brightens the dressing.
- Olive Oil: Smooths out the dressing, giving it body and richness.
How to Make Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by thoroughly washing your fresh spinach under cold water to remove any grit or dirt. Once cleaned, gently pat the leaves dry with a kitchen towel or use a salad spinner. Drying the spinach well is crucial to ensure your dressing clings perfectly to the leaves rather than making everything soggy.
Step 2: Slice the Strawberries
Next, hull the strawberries by removing the green tops, then slice each berry into quarters. These juicy, sweet pieces will add vibrant pops of color and a delicious natural sweetness that lifts the whole salad.
Step 3: Whisk the Poppy Seed Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and poppy seeds. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and perfectly blended. This dressing is the star that ties all the flavors together with its tangy, sweet, and slightly nutty profile.
Step 4: Toss the Salad
In a large bowl, place the washed spinach, sliced strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together using salad tongs or two large spoons. Tossing gently helps keep the berries intact while ensuring every leaf gets coated with that irresistible dressing.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Finally, transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle a few extra poppy seeds on top for an elegant finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures of the Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe at its best.
How to Serve Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your salad with toasted almonds or candied pecans for an extra crunch, or add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy dimension. Fresh basil or mint leaves also pair beautifully, adding a fragrant pop of herbal freshness that complements the dressing wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This salad makes a fantastic partner to grilled chicken or salmon, adding freshness alongside rich, smoky flavors. It also pairs beautifully with light pasta dishes or can be served as a colorful starter at your next dinner party, impressing guests with its balance of sweet and tangy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, try serving this salad in individual glass jars layered for a picnic or party. Alternatively, arrange the ingredients on a large platter, alternating spinach leaves and strawberry slices for a stunning visual effect. You can even serve it over toasted baguette slices for a fun, salad-inspired bruschetta.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from the Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Dress the salad just before serving to prevent wilting, especially since spinach and strawberries are delicate.
Freezing
This vibrant salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. Strawberries and spinach lose their texture when frozen, and the creamy dressing might separate upon thawing, compromising the delightful experience.
Reheating
Because this salad features fresh ingredients and a cold dressing, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Instead, prepare only the amount you plan to eat to enjoy all the crisp, juicy textures and flavors at their peak.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt in the dressing?
Absolutely! If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a creamy vinaigrette base instead. Just keep in mind that the tanginess and texture may vary slightly.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this salad?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this salad, as frozen ones tend to be mushy and watery once thawed, which will affect both texture and appearance.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate and dress the salad right before eating to keep everything crisp and fresh. Prepping the fruit and veggies in advance saves time and ensures a quick, tasty meal.
Can I add protein to the Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a scoop of chickpeas or quinoa make excellent additions if you want a more substantial meal.
How long does the salad stay fresh after dressing?
Once dressed, it’s best eaten within a few hours to enjoy the freshest texture. Leftovers can be stored refrigerated but might become soggy overnight.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe truly shines as a bright, flavorful dish that’s sure to brighten up any meal. Its simple ingredients work in perfect harmony, creating a balance that’s fresh, sweet, tangy, and just a little bit indulgent. Whether you’re crafting a light lunch or looking to impress guests, this salad is a delightful choice you’ll want to make again and again.
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Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A fresh and vibrant Strawberry and Spinach Salad tossed with a creamy, tangy poppy seed dressing made from Greek yogurt, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and patted dry
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: Wash the spinach thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat dry using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to ensure the spinach is dry and crisp.
- Prepare the strawberries: Hull the strawberries by removing their green stems, then slice each strawberry into quarters to create bite-sized pieces that blend well in the salad.
- Make the poppy seed dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and poppy seeds until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy and slightly tangy dressing.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, and thinly sliced red onion to evenly distribute the flavors and textures.
- Toss with dressing and serve: Drizzle the prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with extra poppy seeds for a visual and textural boost.
Notes
- Make sure the spinach is thoroughly dried to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the honey in the dressing to suit your desired sweetness level.
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and honey with maple syrup.
- The salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of spinach and strawberries.
- Extra poppy seeds add a nice crunch and pop of flavor as a garnish.
