Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Poppy Seed (Print View)
Vibrant blend of fresh strawberries and baby spinach with tangy balsamic poppy seed dressing. Perfect for warm weather meals.
# What You'll Need:
→ Salad Components
01 - 6 cups baby spinach, washed and thoroughly dried
02 - 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
03 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced into rings
04 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
05 - 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
06 - 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
→ Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
07 - 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
# How to Make:
01 - Place the baby spinach in a large salad bowl. Top with sliced strawberries, red onion rings, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, and sunflower seeds.
02 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until combined. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to create an emulsion. Stir in the poppy seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
03 - Drizzle the balsamic poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently with salad tongs to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately with additional strawberries or almonds for garnish if desired.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The homemade dressing takes literally two minutes and tastes better than anything store-bought
- It's that rare salad that actually feels substantial and satisfying
02 -
- The dressing emulsifies best when ingredients are at room temperature
- Never dress the salad more than 15 minutes before serving or it will wilt
03 -
- Toast your almonds in advance and store them in an airtight container
- Let the dressing sit for 10 minutes before using to let flavors meld