Strawberry Spinach Sunshine Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Bliss
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Craving a Salad? Gotcha!
Ever found yourself daydreaming of sunshine and vibrant flavors? Honestly, me too! This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic dressing is a party in your mouth! Think sweet strawberries, slightly bitter spinach, and that tangy sweet balsamic kick.
A Salad with History and Health
This kind of Strawberry Salad is a modern twist on a classic combo. It's dead easy to whip up. Takes about 25 minutes, give or take.
You will get around 4-6 servings, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
Why This Spinach Strawberry Salad?
This Fancy Salad is packed with vitamins! It's light, and refreshing. This healthy summer lunch is ideal for a picnic, BBQ, or just a sunny afternoon.
I've made it countless times! It’s just a fab blend of flavours and textures, you know?
I always remember my mum made a similar Spinach salad with fruit when I was little. We had some family friends over for a dinner, and the next day everybody talked about how amazing that salad was! Since then, salads have a special place in my heart.
Let's talk ingredients, shall we?
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Right, let's talk grub. This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic is genuinely easy. Don't let the fancy name fool you.
You know, like when you see a posh dish and think, "Nah, too complicated." Not this one! I swear.
Spinach Strawberry Salad : The Star Lineup
- Spinach : Get 6 oz (170g) of fresh baby spinach. Honestly, quality matters. It should look vibrant, not wilted.
- Strawberries : We need 1 lb (450g) of ripe, juicy strawberries. Smelling them is the best test. Sweetness wins. I once used frozen ones. Never again!
- Red Onion : You'll only need ½ cup (60g) . Slice it super thin. If it's too strong, try shallots. Much milder.
- Nuts : Grab ½ cup (50g) of slivered almonds or pecans. Toasted. Always toasted.
Salad Seasoning: The Flavour Busters
- Balsamic Vinegar : ¼ cup (60ml) . This is your base. It brings all the tartness.
- Olive Oil : 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Good quality stuff, mind. It makes a difference.
- Honey : 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Adjust to taste. Maple syrup works if you're feeling fancy.
- Poppy Seeds : 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Essential for that classic Balsamic poppy seed dressing tang.
- Dijon Mustard : 1 teaspoon . Adds a lovely kick.
- Salt & Pepper : ¼ teaspoon each. Adjust to your liking.
Think of this dressing like a flavour explosion. Don't be shy with it. This Strawberry Salad is all about flavour, isn't it?
Get Your Gear Sorted: The Tools You Need
- Big Bowl : A large salad bowl. Obvious, I know.
- Small Bowl : For the dressing.
- Whisk : To mix that dressing like a pro.
- Measuring cups and spoons : Accurate measurements are key.
- Baking Sheet : For toasting the nuts. Alternatively, use a frying pan.
That's it! I love Summer Salads that don't need loads of stuff.
Remember, the best Pecan Salad or Spinach Salad with Fruit comes from using the best ingredients. It's an Easy Salad Recipe and a Healthy Summer Lunch , so don't skimp!
Right then, let's get cracking on this delightful summery salad! Think picnics in Hyde Park, Wimbledon strawberries, and that satisfying thwack of a croquet mallet.
We’re making something truly special here, a Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing. It's like sunshine on a plate, I tell you! This Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe is perfect for a light lunch.
Prep Like a Pro for the Ultimate Strawberry Salad
Okay, first things first, mise en place , right? That means getting everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Think of it as your backstage pass to easy salad recipe success.
Wash that spinach like your life depends on it. Honestly, nobody wants gritty salad. Then hull and slice those gorgeous strawberries.
Thinly slice that red onion unless you're not a fan, then maybe shallots instead for a fancy salad vibe? And remember to toast your nuts.
Speaking of nuts, did you know that pecans are like, the royalty of the nut world? So, a pecan salad is always a good choice.
Time saving tip: You can totally prep the dressing and toast the nuts a day ahead. Just store them separately. Safety reminder: Don't burn the nuts! Set a timer.
Spinach Salad with fruit is easier than you think, honestly!
step-by-step to Salad Heaven
Here's the super simple process for this Strawberry Spinach Salad .
- Toast the nuts : Spread ½ cup (50g) almonds or pecans on a baking sheet. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 5- 8 minutes . Or cook in a skillet over medium heat, until fragrant and golden.
- Whisk the dressing : In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil, 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey, 1 tablespoon (15ml) poppy seeds, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
- Combine : In a large bowl, mix 6 oz (170g) spinach, 1 lb (450g) strawberries, and ½ cup (60g) red onion.
- Dress it : Pour the dressing over the Spinach Strawberry Salad and gently toss.
- Garnish : Sprinkle with the toasted nuts and ½ cup (60g) crumbled feta (if using).
Pro Tips and Tricks for Summer Salads
Want to take your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic to the next level? Toast those nuts, I'm telling you. It makes all the difference.
Don't overdress! Nobody wants a soggy salad. You can always add more dressing, but you can't take it away, you know?
make-ahead option: Prepare the dressing and toast the nuts a day in advance. Store them separately. Common mistake: Using not-so-fresh strawberries. Make sure you wash them well before you start.
Honestly, this Healthy Summer Lunch option is a winner every time. The balsamic poppy seed dressing is just the right amount of tangy. Enjoy this Strawberry Salad !
Recipe Notes for Your Perfect Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic
Right then, you've got the recipe for this amazing Spinach Strawberry Salad now! But before you dive in, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs to really nail it.
Honestly, sometimes it's the little things that make a huge difference. This is where we'll cover everything from serving ideas to storage tips.
Making it Look Fancy Salad Worthy: Plating and Presentation
Presentation matters, you know? For a simple yet elevated experience, toss your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed in a big, beautiful bowl.
Then, arrange it artfully on individual plates. I like to pile the Spinach Strawberry Salad high, then sprinkle a few extra nuts and a tiny drizzle of balsamic glaze on top.
For a touch of elegance, consider edible flowers. They make any salad pop!
To elevate your salad even further, use a mandoline to get those red onions super thin it makes them less overpowering.
And always, always take a picture before you eat! #foodporn, am I right?
Sides and Sips for your Spinach Strawberry Salad
This easy salad recipe is fantastic as a light lunch, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon.
A slice of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up that delicious dressing. As for drinks, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or some homemade lemonade works wonders.
I find that the acidity of the wine balances the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
Keeping Your Strawberry Salad Fresh: Storage Savvy
Got leftovers? No worries. Store the undressed Spinach Strawberry Salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The spinach will stay crisp for a day or two.
The dressing can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. When you're ready to eat, just toss it all together.
Don’t dress the salad until just before serving, or it will get soggy.
Freezing this salad isn't really an option. Honestly, the spinach will turn to mush, and the strawberries will be sad and watery. Just make it fresh, it's worth it!
Adapting your Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe : Variations Galore
Want to shake things up? Go for it! Swap the feta for goat cheese for a tangier flavour. Or add some grilled chicken for a protein boost, turning it into a filling healthy summer lunch .
For a vegan version, simply omit the cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. And if you're not a fan of almonds, pecans or walnuts work just as well to create a delicious Pecan Salad .
If you're feeling adventurous, try sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch. This Summer Salads Recipe are super versatile, so have fun experimenting!
Nutrition Nuggets in Your Spinach Salad with Fruit
Okay, let's talk about the good stuff! This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Spinach is a great source of iron and vitamins A and C. Strawberries are bursting with vitamin C. The nuts add healthy fats and protein.
The dressing provides a touch of healthy fats from the olive oil. Plus, it's relatively low in calories and high in fiber.
Basically, you're doing your body a favour with every bite!
Honestly, this Spinach Strawberry Salad is a winner. It's easy to make, looks amazing, and tastes incredible. So go on, give it a go and let me know what you think! I bet it'll become one of your go-to summer salads , just like it is for me.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic ahead of time? I'm having a garden party, you see!
You can certainly prep some components! Toast the nuts and whisk together the balsamic poppy seed dressing up to a day in advance, storing them separately. However, hold off on assembling the whole Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic until just before serving.
Spinach tends to wilt and get soggy if dressed too far in advance, and nobody wants a sad salad at their bash!
I'm allergic to nuts. Are there any substitutions I can make in this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic?
Absolutely! If you're avoiding nuts, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a great crunchy alternative. You could also try toasting some bread cubes to make croutons for a bit of crunch. Remember to check all your ingredient labels carefully, as some dressings or cheeses might contain hidden nuts or nut oils.
What's the best way to store leftover Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic?
Honestly, this salad is best enjoyed immediately after making it. However, if you do have leftovers, store the undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the balsamic poppy seed dressing separate and add it just before serving.
The salad will be at its best within 1-2 days, but the spinach might not be as crisp as when it's freshly made.
My strawberries aren't very sweet. Can I still use them in the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic?
Even if your strawberries aren't Wimbledon worthy on their own, you can still use them! A little trick is to macerate them. Just toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon or two of sugar (or honey) and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This will draw out their natural juices and intensify their sweetness.
You can also add a tiny pinch of salt to enhance the strawberry flavour.
I don't have balsamic vinegar, what can I substitute in my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Bliss?
No balsamic vinegar? No worries! Red wine vinegar with a touch of brown sugar works great as a substitute. The goal is to mimic the tangy and slightly sweet flavour profile of balsamic vinegar.
Start with a tablespoon of brown sugar and adjust to taste, you are looking for the perfect balance for your very own Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Bliss!
Is the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic healthy?
Absolutely! This salad is packed with nutrients. Spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals, while strawberries provide antioxidants. The balsamic poppy seed dressing adds flavor without excessive calories, especially if you use honey or maple syrup sparingly.
Just be mindful of the amount of feta or goat cheese, as it can add extra calories and fat, but you can always use less.
Strawberry Spinach Sunshine Salad With Balsamic
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |