A burst of color, crunch, and freshness—that’s what this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing brings to your table. Juicy strawberries, tender baby spinach, toasted pecans, and creamy feta come together under a sweet-tangy balsamic poppyseed vinaigrette. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for spring and summer gatherings or a wholesome weekday meal.

Why You’ll Love This Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant salad isn’t just delicious—it’s a harmony of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Fresh spinach provides an iron-rich base, while strawberries add natural sweetness and vitamin C. The creamy feta balances the fruit’s acidity, and toasted pecans lend a buttery crunch. The homemade poppyseed dressing ties it all together with subtle tang and depth.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a potluck, or craving something refreshing, this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing fits the occasion. It’s quick to assemble, family-friendly, and looks as beautiful as it tastes.

What You’ll Need to Make It

• Fresh Baby Spinach: The tender foundation of this salad, offering mild flavor and vibrant green color.
• Strawberries: The star ingredient, adding juicy sweetness and gorgeous red hue.
• Red Onion: Provides a crisp bite and balances the fruit’s sweetness.
• Feta Cheese: Adds creamy, tangy contrast that enhances every bite.
• Toasted Pecans: Introduce a toasty crunch and a layer of nuttiness that makes the salad irresistible.

Smart Ingredient Swaps

• Cheese Options: Substitute feta with goat cheese or gorgonzola for richer flavor.
• Nuts: Try slivered almonds or walnuts for a different crunch. Sunflower seeds work well for nut-free diets.
• Greens: Use half spinach, half arugula for a peppery twist, or swap in romaine if you prefer a sturdier texture.
• Fruits: Add blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges to vary the sweetness and color.

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Toast the Pecans: Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until fragrant. Chop once cooled.
Soak the Onions: Place thinly sliced red onion in a bowl of cold water to mellow its bite.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. You can also shake it in a mason jar for easy mixing.
Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, and drained red onions.
Dress and Toss: Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss to lightly coat.
Add Finishing Touches: Top with feta and toasted pecans. Toss gently again, adding more dressing as needed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad

Toast the Nuts: Toasting deepens flavor—never skip this step.
Fresh Cheese Matters: Crumble feta from a block instead of using pre-crumbled for a creamier texture.
Don’t Overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid soggy greens.
Make Ahead: Prep all components in advance, but combine and dress just before serving.

Serving Ideas and Flavor Pairings

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or a crusty baguette. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or even a light pasta for a complete meal.

To make it heartier, add:

Protein: Grilled or shredded chicken, quinoa, or chickpeas.
Grains: Cooked farro or wild rice for extra fiber.
Extras: A sprinkle of dried cranberries or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for elevated presentation.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Spinach Salad

Beyond its stunning presentation, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients. Spinach delivers antioxidants and iron, while strawberries provide vitamin C and fiber. Pecans contribute healthy fats, and the honey-based vinaigrette keeps the dish refined-sugar-free. Together, they form a balanced, energizing meal perfect for any clean-eating plan.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store leftover, undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep extra poppyseed dressing in a jar for up to 5 days—shake before using. For meal prep, keep each component separate until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Refreshing, colorful, and irresistibly good, this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing deserves a spot in your rotation. With its perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, it’s proof that eating healthy can also be a feast for the senses. Serve it at brunch, pack it for lunch, or enjoy it al fresco—it’s the salad that celebrates every season.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is more than a side dish—it’s a celebration of freshness, balance, and simplicity. The mix of sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese brings out a flavor harmony that’s light yet deeply satisfying. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a festive brunch, or a healthy weekday lunch, this salad adds color and vitality to any table. With its easy preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s proof that healthy food can also be beautiful, indulgent, and deliciously satisfying.

FAQs About Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

1. Can I make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients up to a day ahead—wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, toast the nuts, and whisk the dressing. Keep each component stored separately. Combine and toss with the dressing just before serving to maintain the best texture and freshness.

2. What can I use instead of spinach?
If spinach isn’t your favorite, try a mix of arugula and baby kale for a peppery bite. Romaine or green leaf lettuce also work beautifully for a crunchier base. The key is to use fresh, tender greens that complement the sweetness of the strawberries.

3. How can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan version, skip the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making this salad easily adaptable to your diet.

4. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are perfect protein additions. You can also toss in cooked quinoa, chickpeas, or farro to turn this Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing into a complete and filling main course.

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