Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad

Name: Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals

A refreshing blend of spinach, strawberries, and a delightful poppyseed dressing, perfect for a light meal or as a side dish.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-01T22:18:30.805Z

This Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. The sweetness of strawberries complements the earthy spinach, and the poppyseed dressing adds a unique twist.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the eyes and palate.
Light and healthy, perfect for warm weather or as a side dish.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

      

The Perfect Summer Salad

As the weather warms up, nothing beats a light and refreshing salad that captures the essence of summer. The Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad is a harmonious blend of fresh spinach and juicy strawberries, providing a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. This salad not only nourishes the body but also tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant colors and sweet-tart dressing.

Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply a quick lunch, this salad is versatile enough to complement any meal. The combination of spinach and strawberries packs a nutritional punch, offering vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Whether you're serving it as a side dish or a light main course, it’s sure to impress.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Spinach is a superfood that is rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K, making it an excellent choice for maintaining overall health. It supports eye health, improves bone density, and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Adding spinach to your diet is a simple yet effective way to boost your nutrient intake.

Strawberries are not just delicious; they are also packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps to strengthen the immune system. They also contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and contributes to heart health. Combining strawberries with spinach in this salad creates a nutritious powerhouse that you can enjoy guilt-free.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of the Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a vegan twist, replace the feta cheese with avocado or a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, making it a complete meal.

Experimenting with nuts is another way to personalize your salad. If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture. Adding a sprinkle of seeds, like sunflower or chia seeds, can also enhance the crunch and nutritional value of the salad, making it even more satisfying.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup pecans, chopped

Poppyseed Dressing

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match the ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta cheese, and pecans.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!

Enjoy this delicious salad as a main or side dish!

Storage Tips

To keep the Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad fresh, it’s best to store the ingredients separately until you’re ready to serve. The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using to mix everything back together.

If you have leftover salad, be aware that the spinach can wilt over time, especially when mixed with the dressing. To prevent this, store any uneaten salad in an airtight container without dressing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply add the dressing and toss.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins, making it an ideal side dish for barbecued chicken, steak, or fish. The lightness of the salad complements hearty mains perfectly, balancing out heavier meals with its refreshing flavors.

For a complete meal, consider serving the salad alongside a warm bowl of quinoa or couscous. The nutty flavors and chewy textures of these grains can enhance the overall dining experience. You could also serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.

Seasonal Variations

As seasons change, so can your salad! In the fall, consider replacing strawberries with apples or pears, which add a crisp sweetness. Pair these fruits with walnuts and a maple vinaigrette for a cozy autumn twist that still celebrates fresh ingredients.

In winter, you might incorporate citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits for a zesty kick. Their brightness can lift the heaviness of winter meals and provide a burst of immune-boosting vitamin C. This adaptability makes the Strawberry Spinach Poppyseed Salad a year-round favorite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving. You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

Substitute the mayonnaise and yogurt with plant-based alternatives and omit the cheese.