A Burst of Flavor: Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Introduction:
Welcome to a culinary delight that embodies the essence of spring and summer on a plate. This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing is a symphony of fresh, vibrant flavors and contrasting textures. Imagine the sweetness of ripe strawberries mingling with the savory notes of crispy bacon, the creaminess of feta cheese, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, all tied together with a luscious poppy seed dressing. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a satisfying meal on its own, this salad is sure to please your taste buds and elevate any occasion.
Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/3 cup plus one tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cider vinegar, sugar, grated onion, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and mayonnaise until well combined. Alternatively, combine all ingredients in a mason jar and shake vigorously.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Strawberry Spinach Salad Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces mixed salad greens (baby spinach, romaine, and spring greens)
- 1/4 large red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb. strawberries, sliced
- 2/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 3/4 cup feta cheese
- 4 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
- In a large wide bowl, spread the mixed salad greens.
- Top the greens with thinly sliced red onion, sliced strawberries, chopped walnuts, crumbled bacon, and feta cheese.
Assembly and Serving
Instructions:
- Drizzle the prepared creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
- Serve promptly and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures!
Tips:
- Experiment with different combinations of salad greens for variety and added nutrition.
- Customize the salad by substituting strawberries with other fresh berries or fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges.
- Enhance the protein content of the salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Achieve thin slices of red onion for better flavor distribution.
- Feel free to replace walnuts with almonds, pecans, or any other preferred nuts.
- Opt for organic strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Keep the salad ingredients separate until ready to serve to maintain their crispness and freshness.
- Substitute feta cheese with mozzarella, blue cheese, or goat cheese according to your preference.
- Add extra texture to the salad with sunflower seeds or cooked quinoa.
- Prepare the creamy poppy seed dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to retain its freshness, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when ready to eat.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
A: Yes, feel free to substitute feta with other cheeses like mozzarella, blue cheese, or goat cheese based on your preference.
Q: How long will the creamy poppy seed dressing last in the fridge?
A: The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.