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Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe with Easy Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing

fresh strawberry spinach salad - featured image

A vibrant and nourishing salad combining fresh baby spinach, ripe strawberries, toasted almonds, and feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy and sweet creamy poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a quick, light meal or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach (about 180 grams), washed and dried
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries (about 300 grams), hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion (about 40 grams), thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds (about 30 grams)
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese (about 50 grams), crumbled
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (120 grams), plain, full-fat or low-fat
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (30 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (21 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (9 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 grams)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon each)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the strawberries under cold water, hull and slice them into thin, even pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Thinly slice the red onion into delicate ribbons. Set aside. (Approx. 10 minutes)
  2. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add baby spinach, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat evenly. Add more dressing as needed, but avoid overdressing.
  5. Sprinkle the cooled toasted almonds and crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Toss gently once more or serve with toppings on top for presentation. (Approx. 2 minutes)

Notes

Toast almonds carefully over medium heat to avoid burning; stir frequently. Slice strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and juicy. Dry spinach thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead and toss just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry spinach salad, creamy poppy seed dressing, fresh salad, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, summer salad, light meal, gluten-free salad