Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
Description
This refreshing Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. Fresh strawberries, crisp greens, and a creamy poppy seed dressing come together for a vibrant and healthy salad that’s perfect for spring and summer meals. It can be served as a light lunch or a colorful side dish at a barbecue or picnic.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
5 cups baby spinach or spring mix
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup sliced almonds (toasted for extra crunch)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Optional: 1/2 avocado, sliced or diced
Optional: 1/2 cup blueberries or mandarin oranges
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon milk (to thin, optional)
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, milk (if using), poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Assemble the salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, feta, almonds, and red onions. Add optional ingredients if desired.
Dress the salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Serve immediately:
Garnish with extra strawberries or almonds if desired. Serve chilled.
Prep Time
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 230 kcal
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 240mg
Cholesterol: 15mg
Note: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can reduce calories and fat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but store the dressing separately and add just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Q: What greens work best in this salad?
A: Baby spinach, spring mix, or arugula all work well. You can also mix them.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. For the dressing, use a dairy-free mayo or yogurt.
Q: Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
A: Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu make great additions for a full meal.
Q: How long does the dressing last?
A: The dressing can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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