Name: Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup raw pecans (toasted); ½ small red onion (very thinly sliced); 10 ounces fresh baby spinach (can substitute with arugula); 1 quart strawberries (hulled and quartered (about 1 pound)); ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (buy block-style feta); ¼ cup balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 ½ tablespoons honey; ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Introduction to Spinach Strawberry Salad

When it comes to refreshing, vibrant salads, a spinach strawberry salad stands out for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is not just easy to throw together—it’s a crowd-pleaser that perfectly balances sweet and savory. With fresh ingredients like baby spinach and juicy strawberries, this salad is packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.

But why should you choose a spinach strawberry salad over other salads? For starters, it’s loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the colorful ingredients. The spinach provides a healthy dose of iron and fiber, while strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that support overall health. Plus, the addition of crumbled feta and toasted pecans introduces delightful crunch and creaminess, elevating your salad experience.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a way to impress guests at your next gathering, this salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or turkey bacon, making it a fantastic choice for a well-rounded meal. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious spinach strawberry salad with balsamic poppy seed dressing!

Ingredients for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Fresh and vibrant, here's what you'll need

Creating a spinach strawberry salad that's bursting with flavor is all about the quality of your ingredients. Here’s a list to get you started:

¾ cup raw pecans: Toasted to perfection, these add a delightful crunch.
½ small red onion: Slice it very thin to keep the flavor light and refreshing.
10 ounces fresh baby spinach: While baby spinach is ideal, a blend with arugula offers an exciting twist.
1 quart strawberries: Sweet and juicy, hulled and quartered (that's about a pound of strawberries!).
¾ cup crumbled feta cheese: Go for block-style feta for a creamy texture that elevates your salad.

For the dressing:

¼ cup balsamic vinegar: This is the tang that ties the salad together!
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adding richness and health benefits.
1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds: For a lovely visual touch.
1 ½ tablespoons honey: A hint of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: For a hint of zest.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just enough spice to elevate the dish.

Ready to whip this salad up? Be sure to source the freshest ingredients! Check out sites like USDA's Fruits & Veggies for tips on picking the best produce. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant spinach strawberry salad!

Preparing Spinach Strawberry Salad

Creating a delicious spinach strawberry salad is all about engaging with the stepping stones of preparation. With a few simple tasks, you’ll have a dish bursting with contrasting flavors and textures. Let’s walk through the process!

Toasting the pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While that warms up, spread ¾ cup of raw pecans across an ungreased baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You definitely don’t want to miss this step; the moment those pecans start to smell fragrant, you know they’re on the right track! For optimal freshness, look for the center of each pecan to be a lovely tan when broken in half. Once they're perfectly toasted, transfer them to a cutting board and give them a rough chop. This will enhance their nutty crunch and bring an enticing flavor to your salad.

Soaking the onions

Next up is the red onion. Thinly slice ½ small red onion and place it in a bowl of cold water. You might be wondering, why soak the onions? Soaking them helps mellow out their sharpness, making them a fantastic addition without overpowering the salad. Let those onion slices sit while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Whisking up the poppy seed dressing

The dressing is where the magic happens! In a small mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of balsamic vinegar, 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 1½ tablespoons of poppy seeds, 1½ tablespoons of honey, ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can shake these ingredients in a mason jar; just make sure the lid is tight! This dressing adds a delightful tang that beautifully complements the salad’s sweetness.

Assembling the salad

Now, let’s bring the spinach strawberry salad to life! In a large serving bowl, layer 10 ounces of fresh baby spinach with 1 quart of hulled and quartered strawberries. Once those vibrant colors are in place, drain your soaked onions and add them into the mix. Drizzle about half of your poppy seed dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat the greens. Remember, you want your spinach leaves nicely moistened but not drenched in dressing—aim for the right balance!

Final touches before serving

Almost there! Now it's time to finish off this beautiful creation. Gently add ¾ cup of crumbled feta cheese and your toasted pecans. Toss everything lightly to combine but don’t overdo it; you still want to see those colorful layers. For the ultimate fresh experience, serve immediately with extra dressing on the side for those who desire a little more kick. Enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors that your spinach strawberry salad brings!

For more delicious salad inspiration, check out popular salad blogs like Love and Lemons or Minimalist Baker!

Variations on Spinach Strawberry Salad

When it comes to a refreshing spinach strawberry salad, the possibilities are endless!

Add Some Protein: Chicken or Turkey Bacon

Want to amp up the protein? Adding sliced grilled chicken or crispy turkey bacon can elevate your salad to a heartier meal. The savory flavors perfectly complement the sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to make leftovers more enticing during the week!

Go Nut-Free: Swap Pecans for Sunflower Seeds

If you're looking for a nut-free twist, simply swap out the pecans for sunflower seeds. They add a delightful crunch and a dose of healthy fats without the allergens. This variation keeps the salad enjoyable for everyone, ensuring no one misses out on its deliciousness.

For more creative variations, check out this guide to salad toppings. You can mix and match ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs!

Cooking notes for Spinach Strawberry Salad

When preparing your spinach strawberry salad, a few tips can elevate the experience.

Freshness matters: Choose the freshest spinach and strawberries you can find for optimal flavor.
Red onion soaking: Soaking the sliced red onion in cold water minimizes the sharpness and brings a balanced sweetness to the dish.
Dressing wisely: Dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, while the dressing stays fresh for five days.

For more tips on salad preparation, you can explore the Salad Recipe Guide. Remember, the secret is in the details!

Serving suggestions for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Perfect pairings and occasions for serving the salad

This spinach strawberry salad is as versatile as it is delicious! Perfect for summer picnics, brunch gatherings, or even as a refreshing dinner starter, its bright flavors can elevate any meal.

Pairings: Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or turkey bacon for protein or as a side to a light seafood dish. For a heartier option, enjoy it next to beef sliders.
Occasions: It shines at spring picnics, casual BBQs, and festive celebrations where you want to impress guests with minimal effort. An extra drizzle of the balsamic poppy seed dressing on the side can offer a delightful touch!

For adding a fun twist, check out these pairings: Grilled Chicken Recipes or Vegetable Side Dishes. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad

When crafting your spinach strawberry salad, it’s all about balancing flavors and textures to suit your palate. Start by adjusting the sweetness; if you like a little zing, add more Dijon mustard or a touch of lemon juice to your dressing. For crunch, consider substituting pecans with walnuts or even crispy chickpeas, which adds not only texture but also extra protein.

Don’t forget about seasoning: a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully. As you toss everything together, be sure to handle the salad gently to keep the spinach fresh and vibrant.

For more ideas on customization, check out resources like EatingWell for tips on salads and dressings!

Time Details for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Preparation Time
The spinach strawberry salad requires about 15 minutes to prepare. This includes the time taken for washing, hulling strawberries, and slicing those lovely red onions.

Cooking Time
There’s minimal cooking involved here—most of your effort will be in toasting the pecans for that added crunch, which takes around 10 minutes.

Total Time
In total, you'll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish, making this salad a quick and delightful option for lunch or a light dinner. For additional tips on balancing flavors in salads, check out this expert guide.

This uncomplicated recipe shines with the freshness of its ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion!

Nutritional Information for Spinach Strawberry Salad

When you indulge in this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing, you're not just treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body! Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories

Each serving of this vibrant salad contains approximately 249 calories. It's a light yet satisfying option perfect for lunch or dinner.

Protein

This salad packs in about 6 grams of protein per serving, thanks to ingredients like feta cheese and pecans, helping to keep you feeling full and energized.

Carbohydrates

With around 16 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from fresh strawberries and spinach, this salad offers a healthy balance of nutrients without the excess!

For more on the health benefits of spinach and strawberries, you can check out sources like Healthline or WebMD. Incorporating this salad into your diet is an excellent choice for delicious nutrition!

FAQs about Spinach Strawberry Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach strawberry salad components ahead, but it's best to dress the salad just before serving. If you have leftovers, store them undressed in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just remember to keep the dressing in a separate airtight container; it will stay fresh for about five days.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta or just want to mix things up, there are several great alternatives. Try crumbled goat cheese for a creamy texture or even blue cheese for a bold flavor. You could also use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option!

Are there any seasonal variations for this salad?

Yes, indeed! This spinach strawberry salad is versatile. In the fall, consider adding sliced apples or pears and swapping in walnuts for a different nutty flavor. During winter, pomegranate seeds can add color and sweetness. Embrace seasonal produce, and your salad will always be a hit!

Conclusion on Spinach Strawberry Salad

Embrace healthy eating with this delightful salad! The spinach strawberry salad paired with a zesty balsamic poppy seed dressing is not only vibrant and delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's perfect for any occasion, whether a casual lunch or a festive gathering. Try this refreshing dish today!

Embrace healthy eating with this delightful salad!

If you’re looking to incorporate more greens into your meals, the spinach strawberry salad is an easy and delicious choice. With its combination of fresh spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pecans, this salad satisfies your taste buds while nourishing your body.

The balance of flavors from the tangy balsamic poppy seed dressing enhances each bite, making it a truly enjoyable experience. Plus, this salad is versatile! You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences by adding protein like grilled chicken or turkey bacon for a heartier meal.

Feeding a crowd? This recipe scales perfectly, allowing you to prepare a beautiful salad that will impress your guests while keeping everyone healthy.

As you enjoy your bowl of greens, remember that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring. Exploring colorful dishes like the spinach strawberry salad can transform your meals into vibrant celebrations of flavor. For more healthy salad inspirations, check out resources like EatingWell or the American Heart Association for tips on nutritious eating habits.