SubscribeStrawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
There’s something about the combination of fresh strawberries and spinach that feels like the start of spring. It’s one of those simple, seasonal recipes that comes together effortlessly but always feels special.
This strawberry spinach salad is the kind of dish I make after a visit to a local farm store, when everything looks fresh and vibrant. Sweet strawberries, tender spinach, and a light poppyseed dressing create a balance of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying. After a weekend visit to Southwest Michigan's
Granor Farm, I was inspired to make this salad with their greenhouse grown fresh spinach.
It’s perfect for a spring brunch, a light lunch, or as a side for dinner when you want something bright and seasonal on the table. You can easily add grilled chicken or steak strips to this dish to make it into a heartier dinner entree.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
• Fresh, seasonal ingredients
• Light but satisfying
• Comes together in minutes
• Perfect for entertaining or everyday meals
• Beautiful presentation
Ingredients
Salad
6 cups fresh spinach (washed and dried)
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
⅓ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Poppyseed Dressing
Instructions
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, and nuts.
Toss and Serve
Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.
Top with fresh herbs or microgreens if you have them on hand.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Spinach Salad
Use fresh, dry spinach
This helps the dressing coat the leaves evenly.
Slice strawberries just before serving
Keeps them juicy and fresh.
Add dressing right before serving
Prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
Variations
Add grilled chicken or steak for a full meal
Swap feta for goat cheese
Use candied pecans for a sweeter touch
Add avocado for extra creaminess
What to Serve with This Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with my:
It also works perfectly as part of a Simple Spring Brunch Menu, especially when you want something fresh to balance richer dishes.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep all ingredients ahead of time, but store separately. Toss everything together just before serving.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Feta or goat cheese both work beautifully.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, a light balsamic vinaigrette also pairs well.