Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Preparation Time:
30 min
Ingredients:
- 200g of fresh spinach
- 150g of fresh strawberries, sliced
- 50g of feta cheese, crumbled
- 30g of walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Kitchen Tools Needed:
- bowl
- whisk
- knife
- cutting board
Instructions:
- The mixing bowl contains fresh spinach with sliced strawberries that have been combined.
- Combine olive oil and apple cider vinegar with honey along with poppy seeds and pepper and salt in a small bowl till all elements become consistent.
- Mix all ingredients well so that the dressing coats the spinach and strawberries sufficiently.
- A finishing touch on your salad consists of crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts which should be added just before serving.
Macros:
- Total Calories: 340kcal
- Carbs: 20g
- Proteins: 10g
- Fats: 25g
The Spinach & Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Fresh spinach provides a vibrant green base packed with vitamins A, C, and K, while the juicy strawberries add a natural sweetness and a burst of antioxidants. This combination makes the salad not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
One of the highlights of this salad is the poppy seed dressing, which brings a subtle nutty crunch and a bright tang that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. The dressing is made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey, creating a harmonious balance between sweet and sour that perfectly complements the freshness of the spinach and strawberries.
Adding crumbled feta cheese introduces a creamy, salty element that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. The feta’s richness elevates the salad, giving it more depth and a satisfying texture. Meanwhile, the chopped walnuts contribute a crunchy bite as well as heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
This salad is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a refreshing snack. The balance of fresh greens, fruit, nuts, and cheese ensures a mix of textures and flavors that keep each bite interesting and satisfying.
Preparation is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for busy weekdays or casual gatherings. Using fresh, seasonal strawberries will enhance the flavor even more, but frozen or out-of-season strawberries can also be used if fresh ones aren’t available. Simply thaw and drain them well to avoid watering down the salad.
Besides being tasty and easy to make, this salad is visually appealing. The vibrant red of the strawberries against the deep green spinach creates a beautiful contrast, while the poppy seeds and walnuts add visual interest. It’s a dish that not only tastes great but looks inviting on any dining table or buffet.
For those looking to customize this salad, it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon for added protein. You can also experiment by swapping the walnuts for pecans or almonds, or by trying goat cheese instead of feta for a different creamy texture. No matter the variation, this salad remains a healthy and flavorful choice.
