If you’re on the lookout for a salad that feels like a celebration in every bite, the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This vibrant dish masterfully balances crisp baby spinach, juicy strawberries, and a tangy yet sweet dressing bursting with poppy seeds, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that’s fresh, bright, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a show-stopping side, this salad dazzles with every forkful and adds a splash of color to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to making a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Each one plays a crucial role—from the peppery spinach providing a fresh base, to the sweet strawberries and crunchy nuts that add bursts of texture and flavor.
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach: The tender, leafy foundation that’s rich in nutrients and adds a mild, refreshing taste.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: These juicy, sweet berries brighten the salad with vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle zing and slight crunch for contrast.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, it brings a satisfying richness to the mix.
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or pecans, chopped: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty warmth.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional): A chewy, tart-sweet addition if you want an extra pop of flavor.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: The acid backbone that balances the dressing with its rich tanginess.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds smoothness and helps meld all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Lends gentle sweetness to counterbalance the vinegar.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds: Adds a delicate crunch and a touch of nuttiness that’s simply unforgettable.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to lift every flavor in the salad.
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Begin by whisking together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl or jar. This dressing is the star that ties everything together with its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. Taste and adjust the sweetness or seasoning to your liking; this step ensures your salad will have a dressing that sings with flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and dried cranberries if you’re using them. The combination of textures here is wonderful—the tender spinach leaves paired with juicy berries and crisp onion rounds create a base that’s as exciting as it is healthy.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese and the toasted nuts over the top. The creamy cheese adds a luscious contrast to the fresh greens, while the nuts bring a satisfying crunch and a warm, roasted flavor that makes every bite delightful.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Right before serving, drizzle your freshly made balsamic poppy seed dressing evenly over the salad. Toss it gently to coat every leaf and ingredient without bruising the tender spinach or mash the berries. This final touch brings all the elements into delicious harmony.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately so the salad stays fresh and vibrant. The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is perfect on its own or paired wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a fuller meal. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that looks just as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra wow factor, consider garnishing your salad with fresh herb sprigs like mint or basil—these add a fragrant note that enhances the berries beautifully. A few extra toasted nuts scattered on top give a rustic, artisanal feel that guests will admire.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a bright, refreshing side alongside warm, savory dishes such as grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or even a hearty quiche. It offers a lovely contrast, cutting through richer flavors and cleansing the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the gorgeous colors of the strawberries and spinach, or serve in individual mason jars for a stylish, portable presentation. You can also use edible flowers as toppings to add an elegant touch that will impress at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This helps keep the spinach crisp and prevents it from wilting too quickly. When ready to eat, just toss them together again for fresh enjoyment.
Freezing
Because this salad features fresh spinach and strawberries, freezing is not recommended. These ingredients lose texture and flavor when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If paired with warm dishes, serve the salad chilled on the side to maximize its refreshing qualities.
FAQs
Can I use baby kale instead of spinach?
Absolutely! Baby kale works well as a hearty substitute, offering a bit more chew and a robust flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet strawberries and tangy dressing.
Is there a vegan option for the dressing?
Yes! Simply swap out honey for maple syrup and omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative to keep the salad vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste.
How long does the dressing keep?
The balsamic poppy seed dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in a sealed container. Just give it a quick shake or whisk before using.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu are fantastic additions that boost the protein content and make this salad a satisfying main course.
What nuts work best if I have allergies?
Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great nut-free options that still add crunch and texture without triggering allergies.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe enough—it’s a delicious, colorful, and nutritious treat that’s perfect for all seasons. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavors that complement each other so well, this salad brings an uplifting freshness to any meal. Go ahead and give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant Spinach Strawberry Salad featuring baby spinach, sweet strawberries, tangy red onion, creamy feta or goat cheese, crunchy toasted nuts, and optional dried cranberries, all tossed in a homemade balsamic poppy seed dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a colorful side that pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the sweetness and seasoning to your preference and set the dressing aside.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach, sliced strawberries, thinly sliced red onion, and dried cranberries if using. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad, followed by the toasted almonds or pecans. These add a creamy texture and crunch to the salad.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to ensure that the spinach and toppings are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. It pairs excellently with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty and balanced meal.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether.
- To toast nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
- Dried cranberries add a nice tart sweetness but can be left out if you prefer a less sweet salad.
- Adjust the dressing sweetness based on your taste preference by adding more honey or maple syrup as desired.
- Use fresh baby spinach for the best texture and flavor; avoid wilted or old leaves.
