Strawberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the earthy flavor of spinach, crunchy walnuts, salty feta cheese, and crispy bacon, all tossed together with a creamy poppy seed dressing. This salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinners, and is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation.

Why Make Strawberry Spinach Salad

Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer in a light and satisfying dish. The combination of sweet strawberries, tender spinach, and savory toppings creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that is both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a light lunch, or a colorful addition to your meal, this salad is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

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 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Salt and pepper to taste

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
4 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled

Instructions

Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together cider vinegar, granulated sugar, grated onion, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and mayonnaise until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Alternatively, you can add all the dressing ingredients to a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake until combined.
Assemble the salad: In a large wide bowl, spread the mixed salad greens and top with thinly sliced red onion, sliced strawberries, chopped walnuts, crumbled feta cheese, and crispy cooked bacon.
Toss with dressing: Drizzle the creamy poppy seed dressing over the top of the salad and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve promptly: Serve the salad promptly, as the dressing may cause the greens to wilt if left to sit for too long. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad!

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Spinach Salad is perfect for serving as a side dish alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or quiche. You can also enjoy it as a light and refreshing lunch or dinner on its own. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Info

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad until ready to serve to prevent the greens from becoming soggy. If storing dressed salad, do not add the bacon until ready to serve to maintain its crispness.

Tips and Techniques

To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative.
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as sliced almonds, grilled chicken or shrimp, avocado slices, or croutons.
For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the feta cheese with diced avocado or a dairy-free cheese alternative.

FAQs about Strawberry Spinach Salad

Q: Can I use a different type of nut in this salad? A: Yes, you can substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or pine nuts, depending on your preference or what you have on hand.

Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using to recombine the ingredients.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? A: While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained if fresh strawberries are not available. However, keep in mind that frozen strawberries may be softer and more watery than fresh ones.

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