Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, vibrant, and colorful dish that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors. The crisp baby spinach leaves paired with juicy strawberries create a delightful contrast, while the creamy, slightly tangy poppy seed dressing ties everything together. This salad isn’t just nutritious — it’s visually stunning and bursting with fresh seasonal flavor.

This recipe is often seen in spring and summer menus, but it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re planning a family meal, a brunch gathering, or looking for a light yet satisfying lunch, this salad stands out as a delicious and nourishing choice.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s incredibly refreshing while still being full of flavor. The sweetness of strawberries plays beautifully against the subtle bitterness of spinach. The addition of almonds or pecans adds crunch, bringing texture and balance to each bite.

The poppy seed dressing is a star on its own — creamy, slightly sweet, slightly tart, and unbelievably addictive.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad deserves a spot in every kitchen because:

It’s nutritious and filled with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
It’s customizable and works as a meal or a side dish.
It’s elegant enough for events yet simple enough for everyday meals.
It brings a refreshing burst of flavor that compliments rich or heavy foods.
It encourages seasonal eating and fresh ingredients.

If you want a salad that tastes decadent yet supports a healthy lifestyle, this one is a must-try.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Estimated Calories: 220–280 per serving (varies with toppings)
Course: Side Dish / Light Lunch
Cuisine: American / Contemporary

Ingredients

For the Salad:

6 cups fresh baby spinach
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional but recommended)
¼ cup sliced almonds, walnuts, or pecans (toasted preferred)

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:

¼ cup mayonnaise OR Greek yogurt
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp poppy seeds
Pinch of salt and pepper

Cooking Directions (Overview)

Prepare and wash all salad ingredients.
Whisk the dressing until smooth.
Combine ingredients gently.
Serve fresh.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Wash and dry spinach thoroughly (use a salad spinner if available).
Slice strawberries and onions.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

In a dry pan over medium heat, toast nuts for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. (Optional but enhances flavor)

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a bowl or mason jar, whisk together mayonnaise/Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, and vinegar.
Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify.
Add poppy seeds, salt, and pepper; mix well.

Step 4: Assemble

Place spinach, strawberries, nuts, onions, and cheese in a serving bowl.
Drizzle dressing over the top.
Toss gently right before serving.

How to Serve

Serve immediately after dressing to keep spinach crisp.
Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, quiche, bread rolls, or pasta.
This salad works beautifully for brunch, luncheons, picnics, or dinner parties.

Recipe Tips

Always dry your greens — moisture will water down the dressing.
Use freshly ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor.
Add dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Taste the dressing before adding — adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, turkey slices, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Fruit Options: Replace or mix with blueberries, oranges, apples, or peaches.
Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese, ricotta, or shaved parmesan for a twist.
Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

Storage & Freezing

Refrigeration (Salad): Best eaten fresh. Store undressed salad for 1–2 days in airtight container.
Refrigeration (Dressing): Store in a sealed jar for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Not recommended — greens and dairy dressings don’t freeze well.

Special Equipment Needed

Salad bowl
Whisk or mason jar with lid
Cutting board & knife
Salad spinner (optional but helpful)

FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad ahead?
A: Yes, but keep the dressing separate until serving.

Q: Can I make the dressing dairy-free?
A: Yes — use dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Not recommended — they become mushy when thawed.

Conclusion

Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, colorful, and wholesome dish that proves healthy food can be incredibly delicious. It offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors — creamy, crunchy, sweet, savory, and tangy.

Whether you’re trying to incorporate more fresh ingredients into your meals or planning a beautifully presented dish, this salad is a delightful choice.