Description
A bright and refreshing spinach strawberry salad made with fresh fruit, tender greens, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a lightly sweet balsamic poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, add the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk or shake until smooth and fully emulsified, then set aside.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the baby spinach and place it in a large salad bowl.
- Add the sliced strawberries and red onion, if using.
- Sprinkle the toasted nuts and crumbled cheese over the salad.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, starting with half.
- Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
For best results, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. Toasting the nuts enhances flavor and crunch. This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American