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Salads have long been cherished as versatile meals that can be tailored to suit any palate, and one salad that stands out for its delightful combination of flavors is the Fresh & Fruity Spinach Strawberry Poppyseed Salad. This vibrant dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with freshness, making it a popular choice for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, and light lunches. The symphony of peppery spinach, sweet strawberries, and creamy poppyseed dressing creates a taste experience that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Spinach Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

Discover the vibrant and delicious Fresh & Fruity Spinach Strawberry Poppyseed Salad, the ideal dish for warm weather gatherings, picnics, and light lunches. This salad combines peppery spinach, juicy strawberries, and a creamy poppyseed dressing for a refreshing taste experience. Packed with essential nutrients from spinach and strawberries, this colorful salad not only pleases the palate but also supports your health. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the health benefits this salad brings!

Ingredients
  

6 cups fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and dried

2 cups strawberries, hulled and elegantly sliced

1/2 cup red onion, finely sliced for a mild bite

1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy contrast

1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional but recommended for creaminess)

1/4 cup poppy seeds, adding texture and visual appeal

For the Poppyseed Dressing:

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, for a tangy kick

1/4 cup honey or agave syrup, to add sweetness

1/2 cup vegetable oil or extra virgin olive oil, to create a smooth emulsion

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, to enhance the flavor depth

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar and honey (or agave syrup). Gradually whisk in the vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. Stir in the Dijon mustard, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Finally, fold in the poppy seeds and set aside to let the flavors mingle.

    Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, layer the fresh spinach leaves, vibrant sliced strawberries, and delicately sliced red onion. If you’re using them, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts on top for a delightful crunch.

      Dress the Salad: Just before serving, generously drizzle the prepared poppyseed dressing over the salad. You can use a fork or large salad tongs to gently toss the ingredients together, ensuring that each element is coated with the refreshing dressing.

        Serve with Style: Plate the salad immediately in individual serving bowls or on a large platter. For an added touch, sprinkle extra poppy seeds over the top for visual appeal.

          Enjoy the Freshness: This delightful and colorful salad is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one day. To maintain the crispness of the greens, keep the dressing on the side until ready to serve.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6