When it comes to fresh, vibrant, and nutritious salads, nothing quite compares to the Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. This delightful dish balances sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors in a way that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick summer salad, a healthy side dish, or a light meal, this salad is a perfect choice.
Not only is it delicious and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The fresh baby spinach provides a rich source of iron and vitamins, while the juicy strawberries add a natural sweetness and a boost of antioxidants. The almonds contribute a satisfying crunch, and the creamy goat cheese brings a delightful contrast in texture. Finally, the homemade poppy seed dressing ties everything together with its tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making this incredible Spinach & Strawberry Salad, including step-by-step instructions, variations, storage tips, FAQs, and more.
Why You’ll Love This Spinach & Strawberry Salad
- Simple & Quick – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute side dish.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for brunches, picnics, barbecues, or holiday meals.
- Customizable – Easy to adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Deliciously Balanced – A combination of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy flavors.
Ingredients for Spinach & Strawberry Salad
For the Salad:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 5 to 8 ounces baby spinach (4 to 5 lightly packed cups)
- 1/2 cup almonds (regular or smoked), coarsely chopped
- 4 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, granulated sugar, finely chopped shallot, Dijon mustard, and kosher salt. Continue whisking until the sugar dissolves completely.
While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing is fully emulsified. This process helps to create a smooth and well-blended dressing. Finally, stir in the poppy seeds, giving the dressing its signature look and texture.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, coarsely chopped almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Toss gently to ensure even distribution of all the ingredients.
3. Dress the Salad
Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overdress—start with a little dressing and add more as needed.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
Transfer the Spinach & Strawberry Salad to a serving platter or divide it into individual plates. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!
Pro Tips for the Best Spinach & Strawberry Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh, ripe strawberries and crisp spinach will elevate the flavor.
- Toast the Almonds – Lightly toasting the almonds enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Chill the Dressing – For an even better taste, let the dressing sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before using.
- Balance the Flavors – Adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or mustard in the dressing to your taste preference.
- Add the Dressing Just Before Serving – This prevents the spinach from becoming soggy.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Greens – Swap baby spinach for arugula, mixed greens, or romaine lettuce.
- Nut-Free Option – Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Cheese Alternatives – Try using feta, blue cheese, or shaved parmesan instead of goat cheese.
- Add Protein – For a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
- Swap the Dressing – Use balsamic vinaigrette, honey mustard, or lemon dressing for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storing:
- Keep the salad undressed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Store the dressing separately in a jar and shake before using.
Making Ahead:
- You can prepare the poppy seed dressing up to 3 days in advance.
- Slice the strawberries and store them separately in the fridge until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to keep the spinach fresh.
2. What’s the best way to toast almonds?
Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
4. How do I make the dressing less sweet?
Reduce the sugar amount in the dressing or swap it for honey or maple syrup.
5. What’s a good substitute for poppy seeds?
You can use sesame seeds or chia seeds as an alternative.
6. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients in this Spinach & Strawberry Salad are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
The Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the ultimate blend of fresh, flavorful, and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a dinner party, or a potluck gathering, this salad is sure to impress. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, crunchy almonds, and tangy dressing creates a harmonious balance of flavors that makes this dish absolutely irresistible.
Try this easy, delicious, and wholesome recipe today, and experience the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite!