If you are looking to brighten up your meal routine with something vibrant and irresistibly fresh, the Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad perfectly balances the sweet juiciness of strawberries with the earthy, tender crunch of fresh spinach, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy poppy seed dressing. Each bite is a burst of flavors and textures that sings with freshness, making it a delightful addition to any lunch or dinner table. Trust me, once you discover this combination, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for a healthy, satisfying salad that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is a breeze thanks to the simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one contributes something special—from the crispness of fresh spinach to the tangy sweetness of the dressing—making the final dish truly harmonious and colorful.
- Fresh Spinach: Carefully washed and dried for a tender, green base packed with nutrients and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Juicy Strawberries: Quartered to release their natural sweetness and provide vibrant color and juicy bursts with every bite.
- Poppy Seeds: Give a tiny crunch and subtle nutty flavor that bring a unique texture and visual appeal to the dressing.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced to add a mild sharpness and a little bite contrast, enhancing the overall salad experience.
- Greek Yogurt: Forms the creamy base of the dressing, lending richness without heaviness and a slight tang.
- Honey: Naturally sweetens the dressing, balancing the acidity and smoothing out flavors.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds bright acidity that cuts through the creaminess and lifts the salad’s flavors.
- Olive Oil: Provides smoothness and body to the dressing, tying all the ingredients together beautifully.
How to Make Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Greens and Fruit
Start by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit, then gently pat it dry. This step is crucial to keep the leaves crisp and fresh. Next, hull your strawberries—removing the green tops—and slice them into quarters for perfect bite-sized pieces that won’t drown in the dressing.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and those charming little poppy seeds. Whisk everything together until it forms a smooth, creamy dressing. The balance of tang from the vinegar and creaminess from the yogurt, mellowed by honey’s sweetness, makes this dressing simply irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss the fresh spinach, juicy strawberry quarters, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle the dressing over this vibrant medley and toss gently to coat every leaf and berry with the luscious dressing—avoid over-tossing so the strawberries stay intact.
Step 4: Plate and Garnish
Serve this beautiful salad immediately on plates or in bowls. Sprinkle additional poppy seeds on top for an extra little crunch and that signature pop of black against a sea of green and red. The freshness is at its best when served right away.
How to Serve Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
To add a touch of elegance and extra flavor, feel free to garnish with some sliced almonds or crumbled feta cheese. Both add wonderful texture—the almonds bring a toasty crunch, while the feta adds a creamy, salty note that complements the sweet strawberries beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon for a light but fulfilling meal. It also stands out alongside quinoa bowls or roasted vegetable dishes, offering a fresh, tangy counterpoint to more robust flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in individual mason jars layered with dressing at the bottom, spinach next, strawberries, and onion on top. This not only looks charming but keeps the leaves crisp until you’re ready to eat. Alternatively, use edible flowers to decorate the top for a whimsical spring or summer table setting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshest texture and avoid soggy leaves and fruit.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh spinach and strawberries, which will become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh to appreciate all the vibrant flavors and textures.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. It’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect quick and refreshing dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw them fully and drain excess moisture to avoid watering down the salad.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the dressing?
You can use sour cream or mayonnaise for a similar creaminess, though Greek yogurt keeps the dressing lighter and tangier, which balances the sweetness perfectly.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan, swap out the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt alternative and use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
How long does the salad stay fresh once dressed?
For the best taste and texture, enjoy the salad immediately. If dressed ahead of time, consume within a few hours; spinach and strawberries tend to release water, which can make the salad soggy.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to this salad?
Absolutely! Blueberries, mandarin oranges, or sliced apples add extra sweetness, while walnuts or pecans offer a delicious crunch that complements the poppy seed dressing nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe is truly one of those feel-good dishes that is as easy to make as it is wonderful to eat. It’s bursting with freshness, layered with complementary flavors, and perfect for any occasion that calls for a healthy yet indulgent salad. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see just how quickly it can brighten up your table and your day.
Print
Strawberry and Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry and Spinach Salad topped with a creamy poppy seed dressing. This quick 15-minute salad combines fresh spinach, juicy strawberries, and crisp red onion, all tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet Greek yogurt-based dressing with honey and apple cider vinegar. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and patted dry
- 1 cup juicy strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit, then gently pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Slice the strawberries: Hull the strawberries to remove the green tops, then slice each strawberry into quarters to ensure bite-sized pieces that mix well with the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and poppy seeds until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy and tangy dressing.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Drizzle the prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients without bruising the spinach.
- Serve: Divide the salad onto individual plates or bowls and garnish with extra poppy seeds if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the poppy seeds lightly before adding them to the dressing.
- This salad is best eaten fresh; spinach can wilt and strawberries can release juice if left too long with the dressing.
- Add nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts for extra crunch if desired.
- Use honey alternatives like maple syrup for a vegan version but adjust to taste.
