Name: Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup raw pecans (toasted); ½ small red onion (very thinly sliced); 10 ounces fresh baby spinach (or arugula and spinach blend); 1 quart strawberries (hulled and quartered (about 1 pound)); ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (buy the block-style feta); ¼ cup balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds; 1 ½ tablespoons honey; ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Introduction to Spinach Strawberry Salad

Are you searching for a vibrant and flavorful dish that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle? Look no further than this delightful spinach strawberry salad with balsamic poppy seed dressing! This fresh and delicious salad not only brightens up your plate but also delivers essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for young professionals on the go.

Why this salad is perfect for young professionals

Creating a wholesome meal often feels daunting when your schedule is jam-packed. This salad is incredibly quick to make, taking just 15-20 minutes from prep to table. Not to mention that it features fresh ingredients like baby spinach, juicy strawberries, and crunchy pecans, all of which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants vital for maintaining your energy levels throughout the day.

Moreover, this salad is versatile; you can enjoy it as a light lunch or pair it with grilled chicken or turkey bacon for a heartier dinner. The sweet-and-tangy balsamic poppy seed dressing elevates the flavors, making every bite a pleasure. Plus, it keeps well—allowing you to prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers during the week.

If you want to learn more about the health benefits of spinach and strawberries, check out Healthline for insights and inspiration!

Ingredients for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Creating a vibrant and delicious spinach strawberry salad is all about the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to craft this fresh and delightful dish.

Essential Ingredients for the Salad

¾ cup raw pecans: For a nutty crunch, pecans not only add flavor but also healthy fats.
½ small red onion (very thinly sliced): These add a sharp yet mild bite to the salad, balancing the sweetness of strawberries.
10 ounces fresh baby spinach: The base of your salad; baby spinach brings a tender and mild flavor.
1 quart strawberries (hulled and quartered, about 1 pound): Juicy and sweet, they are the stars of this dish!
¾ cup crumbled feta cheese: Opt for block-style feta for a creamier texture that elevates the salad.

Ingredients for the Poppy Seed Dressing

To boost flavor even further, whip up a simple yet tangy dressing with these ingredients:

¼ cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a pleasant acidity.
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For a silky smooth texture.
1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds: These tiny seeds add a delightful crunch.
1 ½ tablespoons honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the dressing.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: For an extra depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just a hint of spice to round it off.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious spinach strawberry salad that’s perfect for any occasion. For tips on sourcing quality ingredients, consider checking out local farmers' markets or organic grocery stores. Enjoy crafting this healthy treat!

Step-by-step preparation of Spinach Strawberry Salad

Creating a delightful spinach strawberry salad topped with a zesty poppy seed dressing is an excellent way to enjoy fresh ingredients and tantalizing flavors. This recipe is not only refreshing but also easy to whip up. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Toast the pecans

To start, bringing out the rich flavor of the pecans is essential. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread ¾ cup of raw pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—those last few minutes are crucial, as nuts can go from perfectly browned to burnt in a flash! When they’re fragrant and slightly golden in color, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool briefly, then roughly chop and set aside.

Prep the red onion

For a mild, flavorful addition, prepare your onion next. Take ½ a small red onion and slice it as thinly as you can. To soften its taste, place the sliced onions in a bowl and cover them with cold water. This technique helps remove some of the harsh bite while keeping the essential flavor intact. Let the onions soak while you work on the next steps of making this spinach strawberry salad.

Make the poppy seed dressing

Now, let’s make the star of the show—the dressing! In a small mixing bowl or a large liquid measuring cup, combine ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 ½ tablespoons of poppy seeds, 1 ½ tablespoons of honey, ½ teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper. Whisk them all together until well blended. Alternatively, you could place the ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake it up until mixed. This dressing not only complements the salad wonderfully but also adds a bit of tang!

Assemble the salad

In a large serving bowl, start by layering in 10 ounces of fresh baby spinach. Then, add in that beautiful quart of hulled and quartered strawberries—about 1 pound should do the trick! Don’t forget to drain the red onion and toss that in as well. Now, for a touch of moisture, drizzle about half of your delicious poppy seed dressing over the salad. Gently toss the ingredients to coat the spinach evenly, making sure not to overdo it—just enough to moisten the leaves beautifully.

Toss and serve

Finally, sprinkle ¾ cup of crumbled feta cheese and your toasted pecans over the top. Toss everything lightly to combine and serve immediately for the freshest experience. If anyone prefers a little extra dressing, you can always keep the remainder on the side. This spinach strawberry salad is sure to impress and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings.

With these steps, you’ll have a colorful and nourishing salad in no time. Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors and textures!

Variations on Spinach Strawberry Salad

Adding protein: Chicken ham or turkey bacon
For those looking to boost the nutritional value of their spinach strawberry salad, consider adding a protein source. Grilled chicken ham slices are a fantastic option, providing lean protein with a savory touch. Alternatively, crispy turkey bacon provides a delightful crunch that beautifully complements the sweetness of strawberries. Simply cook and crumble either option over the top for added flavor and satisfaction.

Making it vegan-friendly
Want to keep things plant-based? No problem! Just swap out the feta cheese for a vegan alternative, such as crumbled tofu or avocado for creaminess. Also, replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave nectar to stay aligned with vegan dietary preferences. This way, everyone—regardless of diet—can enjoy this colorful and vibrant salad!

Cooking tips and notes for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Best practices for ingredient selection

To create the best spinach strawberry salad, start with fresh ingredients! Choose vibrant, leafy baby spinach and perfectly ripe strawberries for a burst of flavor. For an even better texture contrast, opt for block-style feta cheese rather than pre-crumbled—it's creamier and richer. Remember to select pecans that are fresh and aromatic to enhance the overall crunch.

Tips for meal prep and storage

When preparing your salad, keep the components separate until serving to maintain freshness. Dress only what you plan to eat; leftover, undressed salad can last up to four days in the fridge, while dressing stored in an airtight container typically remains good for about five days. For more meal prep tips, consider checking out sources like Food Network for great insights on salad storage. Enjoy your vibrant salad with ease!

Serving Suggestions for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Pairings for a Complete Meal

Looking to turn your spinach strawberry salad into a full feast? Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Adding Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham can also enhance the flavor profile while keeping it light yet satisfying. Serve alongside a warm quinoa or farro dish for an extra nutrient punch, or a light soup like tomato basil for that comforting combo.

Serving as a Side Dish

This spinach strawberry salad works beautifully as a side dish! Its refreshing taste complements a variety of entrees, especially during barbeque season or festive gatherings. Think of pairing it with grilled steak, beef tenderloin, or a comforting roasted vegetable medley. For a healthier option, serve it next to baked fish or plant-based burgers. You can even present it as part of a light brunch spread alongside a yogurt parfait or a refreshing cucumber salad.

For more great pairing ideas, you might enjoy checking out The Kitchn or EatingWell.

Time Breakdown for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Preparation Time

Preparing your delicious spinach strawberry salad will take about 15 minutes. This includes washing and slicing the strawberries, chopping the pecans, and whisking up that tangy balsamic poppy seed dressing that brings everything together.

Total Time

From start to finish, you can expect a total time of around 25 minutes for this vibrant salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fresh addition to any dinner spread! Feel free to explore more about healthy eating and ingredient benefits on Healthline.

Nutritional Facts for Spinach Strawberry Salad

Calories

This vibrant spinach strawberry salad packs approximately 249 calories per serving, making it a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.

Protein Content

With 6g of protein, the salad combines fresh greens, strawberries, and feta cheese, providing a delightful and protein-rich meal.

Key Nutrients

This salad is rich in essential nutrients, offering a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K, along with beneficial antioxidants from strawberries. The pecans add heart-healthy fats and fiber, while feta contributes calcium. For more insights on the health benefits of spinach, check out Healthline's article on superfoods.

FAQs about Spinach Strawberry Salad

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the individual components of your spinach strawberry salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate and store it in a jar in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. Combine the spinach, strawberries, pecans, and feta just before enjoying to keep everything fresh and crisp.

How do I store leftover salad?

If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to four days. Remember to keep any leftover dressing in a separate container for about five days. That way, you can enjoy a quick and easy lunch later on without losing that delicious flavor!

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try using crumbled goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative. They add a wonderful creaminess similar to feta, making your spinach strawberry salad just as delightful. You could also consider toasted sunflower seeds for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.

For more tips on salad variations, check out this article on creative salad ideas.

Conclusion on Spinach Strawberry Salad

Why not whip up this delicious spinach strawberry salad today? It’s not just visually stunning, but it also combines refreshing flavors and healthy ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. The balsamic poppy seed dressing elevates the dish, bringing joy to your palate while keeping your meal guilt-free. Enjoy!

Why You Should Try Making This Salad Today

If you haven't yet added a spinach strawberry salad to your meal rotation, now's the perfect time! Not only is it an excellent way to incorporate more greens and fruits into your diet, but it's also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to try this salad today:

Quick and Easy: This salad can be thrown together in just a few minutes, making it a perfect choice for a busy weekday lunch or a last-minute gathering.
Bursting with Flavor: The sweet strawberries contrast beautifully with the savory feta and the crunchy pecans. The balsamic poppy seed dressing adds a tangy depth that ties everything together.
Health Benefits: Spinach is loaded with vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, while strawberries are rich in fiber and packed with nutrients. You can't go wrong with such a power duo!
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts, fruits, or cheeses. Want a protein boost? Add some grilled chicken or chicken ham for added heartiness.

Whether you're entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this spinach strawberry salad is bound to impress. Don't forget to check out this guide to summer salads for more tasty inspirations. Happy eating!