Baby Spinach Strawberry Salad

There's something magical about the arrival of spring—when vibrant greens meet the first flush of ruby-red strawberries at the market. This Baby in Bloom Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing celebrates that fleeting season with a bright, refreshing bowl that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Tender baby spinach forms the foundation, while sweet, juicy strawberries provide bursts of freshness in every bite. Creamy feta cheese adds a tangy contrast, and toasted almonds bring a satisfying crunch. The homemade poppy seed dressing ties it all together with its perfect balance of tangy apple cider vinegar, golden honey, and the subtle nuttiness of poppy seeds. Whether you're hosting a spring brunch, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish for your next gathering, this salad delivers effortless elegance in just 15 minutes.

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The beauty of this salad lies not only in its stunning appearance but also in its versatility. The combination of sweet and savory elements makes it a delightful accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone light meal. The poppy seed dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making this an even more convenient option for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. The contrast between the peppery baby spinach and the sweet strawberries creates a flavor profile that's both sophisticated and universally appealing, making it a hit with adults and children alike.

Ingredients

• 6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Poppy Seed Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well emulsified.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, combine baby spinach, strawberries, red onion, and half the feta and almonds.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat.

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

Top with remaining feta and almonds.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure your baby spinach is thoroughly washed and completely dried before assembling the salad—excess moisture will dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy. Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they're golden and fragrant. This simple step enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch. When slicing the strawberries, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even distribution throughout the salad. The red onion should be sliced paper-thin; if you find raw onion too sharp, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry. When making the dressing, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier emulsification. If you're preparing this salad in advance, keep the components separate and dress just before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile salad adapts beautifully to different tastes and dietary needs. For added protein, top with grilled chicken slices, seared salmon, or chickpeas. Substitute goat cheese for feta if you prefer a milder, creamier cheese, or use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds for a different nutty dimension. For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also experiment with other berries when strawberries aren't in season—blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries all work wonderfully. For extra color and nutrition, add thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, or avocado slices. If you want a bit more sweetness, dried cranberries or golden raisins make excellent additions.

Serviervorschläge

This elegant salad shines as both a starter and a main course. Serve it as a light lunch alongside crusty bread or a cup of soup. It's excellent paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio for a sophisticated spring or summer meal. For brunch, present it alongside quiche or frittata. As a dinner side, it complements grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or seared fish beautifully. The vibrant colors make it a stunning addition to any buffet table or potluck spread. For individual servings at a dinner party, divide the salad among chilled plates and garnish each with an extra whole strawberry. The salad is best enjoyed immediately after dressing, when the spinach is still crisp and the strawberries are at their juiciest.

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This Baby in Bloom Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients that come together effortlessly to create something truly special. Its combination of colors, textures, and flavors makes it a standout dish that's sure to become a springtime favorite. Whether you're new to making homemade salad dressings or a seasoned cook, this recipe demonstrates how simple, quality ingredients can shine when paired thoughtfully. The next time you spot those first beautiful strawberries at the market, let them inspire you to create this delightful salad that captures the essence of the season in every vibrant, delicious bite.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes the dressing flavorful?

The poppy seed dressing uses olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, creating a balanced tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the salad ingredients.

→ Can the almonds be substituted?

Yes, toasted pecans or walnuts work well as alternatives, providing a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?

To veganize, swap honey for maple syrup and replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether.

→ How should the strawberries be prepared?

Fresh strawberries should be hulled and sliced to evenly distribute their sweetness and texture throughout the dish.

→ What are good protein additions to this salad?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas can be added to boost protein and make the salad more filling.