Print

Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Print Recipe

A vibrant and refreshing Spinach Salad with a sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing, combining fresh baby spinach, juicy fruit, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese for a healthy, quick, and flavorful meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves, rinsed and dried
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries or apples
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/3 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Poppy Seed Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach: Rinse fresh baby spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. Spin or pat dry carefully to keep the leaves crisp and fresh for your salad base.
  2. Slice the Fruit and Vegetables: Thinly slice your choice of strawberries or apples, and cut red onions into thin rings or half-moons. These add pops of color and texture throughout the salad.
  3. Toast the Nuts: Lightly toast pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This brings out their natural oils and crunch.
  4. Make or Pour the Poppy Seed Dressing: Whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. Alternatively, use a high-quality store-bought poppy seed dressing.
  5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced fruit, onions, and toasted nuts. Drizzle the poppy seed dressing evenly over the top and toss gently to coat every leaf and ingredient in that delightful sweetness.
  6. Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top as a finishing touch, lending creaminess and depth. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh baby spinach that is crisp and vibrant green for optimal flavor and nutrition.
  • Toast nuts carefully, watching closely to avoid bitterness from overcooking.
  • Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing to your liking for a perfectly harmonious flavor.
  • Chill all components before assembling for a refreshing, crisp salad.
  • Toss gently using a wide bowl to keep spinach leaves intact and prevent bruising.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach salad, poppy seed dressing, healthy salad, gluten free salad, easy salad, summer salad, quick salad

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/spinach-salad-with-poppy-seed-dressing/