Baby Spinach Strawberry Salad

Spring arrives on your plate with this stunning Baby in Bloom Spinach Strawberry Salad, a celebration of fresh flavors and vibrant colors. The sweet juiciness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with tender baby spinach, while creamy feta and toasted almonds add richness and crunch. Tied together with a homemade poppy seed dressing that's both tangy and subtly sweet, this salad transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you're hosting a garden brunch or seeking a refreshing weekday lunch, this effortless recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes.

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The magic of this salad lies in the contrast of textures and the harmony of flavors. Each bite delivers the earthiness of fresh spinach, the burst of sweet strawberry juice, the salty tang of feta, and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds. The poppy seed dressing, with its delicate balance of honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, brings everything together without overwhelming the fresh ingredients. This is the kind of salad that converts even the most reluctant salad eaters into enthusiastic fans.

Ingredients

• 6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the poppy seed dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well emulsified.

Step 2: Combine the salad base

In a large salad bowl, combine baby spinach, strawberries, red onion, and half the feta and almonds.

Step 3: Dress the salad

Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat.

Step 4: Add finishing touches

Top with remaining feta and almonds.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden, watching carefully to prevent burning. Make sure your baby spinach is thoroughly dried after washing, as excess moisture will dilute the dressing. The poppy seed dressing can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator—just shake well before using. For the best flavor, bring the dressing to room temperature before tossing with the salad. Slice the strawberries just before assembling to prevent them from releasing too much juice.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile salad welcomes many adaptations to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For added protein, top with grilled chicken or chickpeas. Substitute goat cheese for feta if you prefer a creamier, milder cheese, or try pecans or walnuts instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor. For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also add sliced avocado for extra creaminess, or toss in some blueberries alongside the strawberries for additional color and flavor. A handful of fresh mint or basil leaves adds an aromatic twist.

Serviervorschläge

This salad shines as a light lunch on its own or as an elegant side dish for spring and summer gatherings. It pairs excellently with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or as part of a brunch spread alongside quiche or frittata. For wine pairing, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy dressing and fresh strawberries beautifully. Serve the salad on chilled plates for an extra-refreshing presentation, and consider offering extra dressing on the side for those who prefer a more generously dressed salad. This dish is best enjoyed immediately after tossing to maintain the crispness of the spinach and the crunch of the almonds.

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This Baby in Bloom Spinach Strawberry Salad is more than just a recipe—it's a celebration of seasonal eating at its finest. The combination of fresh, wholesome ingredients creates a dish that's as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a vibrant, healthy meal, this salad delivers on every level. The homemade poppy seed dressing elevates the entire experience, proving that the simplest preparations often yield the most memorable results. Enjoy this taste of spring any time you crave something fresh, colorful, and completely satisfying.

Recipe FAQ

→ What dressing complements this salad?

A tangy poppy seed dressing made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds enhances the fresh ingredients beautifully.

→ Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes, goat cheese can be used instead for a softer, tangier flavor, or vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free option.

→ Are there protein additions that work well?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas make excellent protein boosts while maintaining the salad's freshness.

→ How should the almonds be prepared?

Use sliced almonds and toast them lightly to add a crunchy texture that complements the other ingredients.

→ Is this suitable for special diets?

This salad is vegetarian and gluten-free, and can be made vegan by replacing honey with maple syrup and omitting cheese.