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- 4 cups fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and dried - 1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced into thin rounds - ½ cup candied pecans or walnuts, coarsely chopped - ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled into bite-sized pieces - ¼ medium red onion, finely sliced into thin strips Fresh spinach is the main base of this salad. It gives a crisp and vibrant feel. Use tender baby spinach for the best taste. Ripe strawberries add a sweet burst. When you slice them, you get juicy, colorful rounds that brighten the dish. For crunch, add candied pecans or walnuts. They bring a sweet, nutty flavor. Feta cheese offers a creamy and tangy touch. Crumbling it on top makes each bite special. Lastly, the red onion adds a sharp kick. Its thin slices provide a nice contrast to the sweet strawberries. - ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar - 2 tablespoons pure honey - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste The poppyseed dressing is simple yet rich in flavor. Start with extra-virgin olive oil for a smooth base. The apple cider vinegar adds tanginess that balances the sweet honey. Honey ties the flavors together with its natural sweetness. Poppy seeds add a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Season the dressing with sea salt and pepper for a perfect finish. When all these ingredients mix, they create a creamy dressing that enhances your salad. For the full recipe, check out the details! 1. In a small bowl, combine extra-virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and poppy seeds. 2. Whisk the mixture until it becomes creamy and well-blended. 3. Taste the dressing and add salt and black pepper as needed. 1. Start with fresh spinach as your base in a large salad bowl. 2. Next, layer the sliced strawberries evenly over the spinach. 3. Sprinkle the chopped candied pecans or walnuts across the salad. 4. Crumble the feta cheese on top for a creamy finish. 5. Finally, add the thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and crunch. 1. Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the salad just before serving. 2. Use clean hands or two large spoons to gently toss the salad. 3. Make sure all ingredients are coated without bruising the spinach or strawberries. 4. For the best taste, serve the salad right away. - Presentation Tips: Use a clear glass bowl to show off the colorful layers. Add a few whole strawberries and a sprinkle of poppy seeds on top for extra flair. For all the details and measurements, check the Full Recipe. To make this salad shine, start with fresh spinach. Look for bright, vibrant leaves with no wilting or browning. The spinach should feel crisp and have a fresh smell. For strawberries, choose ripe ones that are bright red and firm. Avoid any that are mushy or have dark spots. When selecting cheese, feta works best because of its creamy texture. Look for a block of feta instead of pre-crumbled. For nuts, candied pecans or walnuts add sweetness and crunch. Make sure they are fresh, and check the label for quality ingredients. You can customize the poppyseed dressing to suit your taste. Add more honey for extra sweetness or a splash of lemon juice for tang. Feel free to mix in herbs like basil or mint for added flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick. For special occasions, serve the salad in a large, clear glass bowl. This shows off the colorful layers. Garnish with whole strawberries around the edge and sprinkle additional poppy seeds on top. This makes the salad look festive and inviting. For the best experience, serve the salad right after mixing. This keeps the spinach and strawberries fresh and crisp. Enjoy the delightful flavors! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can switch up the fruits in this salad based on what is in season. Try using ripe peaches or juicy blueberries for a different taste. They add nice colors and flavors. For nuts, consider almonds or hazelnuts instead of pecans or walnuts. Each nut brings its unique crunch and taste. If you want a creamier touch, you can swap feta for goat cheese. It adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of strawberries. If you're looking for vegan options, replace feta cheese with avocado or tofu. Both options provide creaminess and healthy fats. For the dressing, use maple syrup instead of honey for a sweet touch. If you need gluten-free alternatives, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added ingredients, like nuts or processed items, are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the salad without worry. This salad goes great with grilled chicken or fish. The light flavors of the salad complement the protein, making a balanced meal. For side dishes, consider serving crusty bread or a light soup. These pair nicely and round out the meal. You can find the full recipe to make this delightful salad and explore more ideas for enjoying it. To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place the salad and dressing in separate containers. This keeps the greens crisp and the flavors fresh. If you mix it all, the spinach will wilt. No one wants a soggy salad! Store the salad in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 1 to 2 days. Keep the salad at a cold temperature. This helps the strawberries and spinach stay bright and tasty. If you notice the spinach turning brown, it’s time to toss it. I do not recommend freezing this salad. The texture of spinach and strawberries changes when frozen. If you want to freeze, try freezing the dressing only. Use ice cube trays for easy portions. When you are ready, thaw and add fresh ingredients to your salad. The spinach strawberry salad lasts about 1 to 2 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Keeping the dressing separate helps keep the salad fresh. Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. Make it about 1 to 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. Just remember to add the dressing right before you serve. If you lack any ingredients, here are some simple swaps: - Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier base. - Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different taste. - Replace feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture. - Use almonds instead of pecans for crunch. Absolutely! You can try balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy twist. A honey mustard dressing adds sweetness. For a creamier option, ranch dressing works well too. Each dressing pairs nicely with the salad's flavors. This salad recipe uses fresh spinach, strawberries, and tasty nuts to create a bright dish. I shared how to make a sweet poppyseed dressing that ties it all together. You can also tweak ingredients to fit your diet or taste. Keep this salad in your fridge, but remember to store the dressing separately. Elevate your meal by pairing it with great sides or proteins. Enjoy making and sharing it at your next gathering!

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Delight in the fresh flavors of this Spinach & Strawberry salad, perfect for any occasion! Packed with vibrant ingredients like sweet strawberries, crunchy candied pecans, and creamy feta, this salad is a feast for your taste buds. Drizzled with a homemade poppyseed dressing, it’s not just delicious but also quick to make. Click through now to explore this refreshing recipe and bring a burst of color to your table!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and dried

1 cup ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced into thin rounds

½ cup candied pecans or walnuts, coarsely chopped

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled into bite-sized pieces

¼ medium red onion, finely sliced into thin strips

Poppyseed Dressing:

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons pure honey

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and poppy seeds. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified and creamy. Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked pepper according to your preference. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.

    In a large, shallow salad bowl, start by placing the fresh spinach at the bottom as your base. Layer the thinly sliced strawberries on top, ensuring even distribution for a pop of color.

      Evenly sprinkle the candied pecans (or walnuts) across the surface of the salad for a crunchy sweetness, followed by the crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast.

        For an added kick of flavor and texture, arrange the thinly sliced red onion in a circular motion atop the salad.

          Just before serving, take the poppyseed dressing and drizzle it generously over the entire salad, allowing it to enhance the freshness of the ingredients.

            With clean hands or using two large salad spoons, gently toss all the ingredients together. Aim for an even coating of the dressing, being careful not to bruise the spinach or strawberries.

              Serve immediately for the best taste experience, ensuring every bite is fresh and vibrant.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Choose a large, clear glass bowl to display the colorful ingredients artistically. For an elegant touch, garnish the salad with a few whole strawberries placed around the edge of the bowl and sprinkle some additional poppy seeds on top for added flair.