A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect way to welcome the flavors of spring and summer. This salad is not only delicious but is also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a great choice for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
Why make this recipe
This salad brings together the perfect blend of fresh greens and juicy strawberries, enhanced by creamy avocado and crunchy almonds. The homemade poppy seed dressing adds a delightful sweetness and tang, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s an easy, quick dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
How to make it
- Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden (about 3-4 minutes). Cool completely.
- Slice strawberries and dice the avocado. Optionally, toss the avocado with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a small jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until emulsified.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, avocado, almonds, and feta. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately.
How to serve it
This salad can be served as a light main dish or as a refreshing side. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it solo for a nutritious snack.
How to store it
For the best taste and texture, it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh. If you need to store it, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than a day to maintain freshness.
Helpful tips
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your taste by adding more or less honey.
- Make sure to cool the toasted almonds completely to retain their crunchiness before mixing with the salad.
Optional variations
- If you want to add more protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or boiled eggs.
- For a nut-free version, you can omit the almonds or substitute them with sunflower seeds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance. Keep it in the refrigerator in a sealed jar for up to a week. Shake well before using.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
What other fruits can I add?
Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples for added flavor and texture.
