This Strawberry Spinach Salad blends the sweetness of strawberries with the freshness of spinach and a hint of savory from bacon and feta cheese, all topped with a homemade creamy poppy seed dressing. It’s a perfect dish for spring and summer gatherings or as a refreshing meal on its own. Here’s how to prepare it:
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 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
For the Strawberry Spinach Salad:
- 12 ounces mixed salad greens (including 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, crumbled
- 4 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, granulated sugar, grated onion, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the poppy seeds, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or acidity according to your preference. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill and let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced strawberries.
- Add the chopped walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and crumbled bacon to the greens.
- Dress the Salad:
- Just before serving, drizzle the creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. The dressing should be added gradually to avoid overpowering the fresh flavors of the salad.
- Serve:
- Serve the salad immediately after dressing to maintain the freshness and crunch of the greens and to prevent wilting.
Tips:
- Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it with a little milk or water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients such as sliced almonds, orange segments, or avocado slices for additional flavors and textures.
- Making Ahead: If preparing for an event, keep the dressing separate and only toss it with the salad right before serving to keep everything fresh.
Conclusion:
This Strawberry Spinach Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a hit for any occasion. The sweet strawberries, crisp greens, salty bacon, and tangy feta create a balanced dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a standalone meal or as a side to complement your main dishes!
