This spinach strawberry salad is a fresh and tasty mix of sweet strawberries and crunchy nuts, all tossed with a light, zesty balsamic poppy seed dressing. Perfect for sunny days!
It’s like a little party in your mouth! I love adding extra berries—because who can have too many strawberries, right? Enjoy it as a side or a healthy lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star of this salad with its crisp texture and slight earthy taste. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use baby kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and juicy bite. If they’re out of season, try using other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even diced apples for some crunch.
Red Onion: This adds a mild onion taste. If you’re looking for something less pungent, thinly sliced green onions or shallots are great alternatives. Or, you can omit it entirely if you prefer!
Walnuts/Pecans: Toasted nuts give a nice crunch. If nuts aren’t your thing or you have allergies, consider sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a tangy depth. You could use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but you might want to add a bit more sweetener to balance the tanginess.
How Do You Make a Creamy Dressing Without a Blender?
Creating a dressing can be simple, and no fancy equipment is needed! Just follow these steps to achieve a well-blended, creamy dressing every time:
- Start with balsamic vinegar and olive oil in a bowl. Always use a 1:1 ratio for balanced flavor.
- Add the honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Whisk it together to dissolve.
- Sprinkle in the poppy seeds and season with salt and pepper. Whisk everything together vigorously until it’s well mixed. A fork also does a good job if you don’t have a whisk!
- Adjust the sweetness as needed by adding more honey or syrup if you like it sweeter.
Having the dressing ready lets the flavors meld beautifully. Drizzle it just before serving for the freshest taste!
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, rinsed and dried
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad preparation takes about 10 minutes total. You can whip it up quickly and enjoy it fresh as a crunchy, fruity dish anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, start by adding the fresh spinach leaves. Then, add the sliced strawberries on top. If you like some extra flavor, toss in the thinly sliced red onion and the toasted walnuts or pecans for that wonderful crunch. Give everything a gentle mix to distribute the ingredients nicely.
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Whisk them together until they are well blended. Next, add the poppy seeds and honey (or maple syrup). If you like it a bit sweeter, feel free to add more honey! Finally, add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor, then whisk again until everything is combined smoothly.
3. Combining Everything:
Before serving, drizzle the dressing all over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently so that all the spinach and strawberries are nicely coated with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the strawberries as you mix!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in immediately to enjoy the freshest taste of your Spinach Strawberry Salad. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Strawberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, sliced apples, or mandarin oranges. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness of the dressing if you’re using different fruits, especially if they are less sweet!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To keep it fresh, it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving. This helps prevent the spinach from wilting.
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes, you can! The balsamic poppy seed dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate while sitting.
Is There a Vegan Option for the Dressing?
Yes! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan dressing. The flavor will still be delicious, and it adds a nice hint of sweetness to balance the tang of the balsamic vinegar.
