This easy Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect healthy recipe for spring and summer. Made with fresh strawberries, baby spinach, feta, pecans, and a homemade creamy dressing, it’s a refreshing, nutrient-rich salad that’s gluten-free, vegetarian, and ideal for lunch, dinner, or entertaining.
Servings 4
Prep Time 15 minutesmins
Total Time 15 minutesmins
Equipment
Salad Spinner: To wash and dry spinach thoroughly for crisp greens
Chef’s Knife or Paring Knife: For slicing strawberries, onions, and chopping pecans
Cutting Board: A stable surface for prepping all your fresh ingredientsLarge Mixing Bowl: To toss and serve the salad with plenty of space
Large Mixing Bowl: To toss and serve the salad with plenty of space
Small Bowl or Dressing Shaker: To mix or shake the homemade poppy seed dressing
Measuring Spoons & Cups: For precise measurements of the dressing ingredients
Tongs or Salad Servers: For gently tossing and serving the salad without bruising the greens
Ingredients
For the Salad:
6CupsFresh baby spinach
1CupSliced strawberries
1/2CupCrumbled feta cheese
1/4CupSliced almonds, toasted
1/4Red onion, thinly sliced
1Avocado, sliced
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
1/4CupExtra virgin olive oil
2TbspApple cider vinegar
1TbspHoney
1TspDijon mustard
1TbspPoppy seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the DressingIn a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined and emulsified. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the SaladIn a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach. Top with sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, red onion, and avocado slices.
Step 3: Dress the SaladJust before serving, give the dressing another good shake or whisk and drizzle it over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
Step 4: Serve and EnjoyServe the salad immediately, garnished with extra poppy seeds or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Enjoy the medley of flavors and textures in every bite!