Description
This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful combination of fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a flavorful balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- â…“ cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- â…“ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and candied pecans. Add avocado slices if desired.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together poppy seeds, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well blended. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal.
- To make it vegan, omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative and swap honey for maple syrup.
- The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
