Looking for a refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for any occasion? Say hello to our delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad! This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the freshness of baby spinach, topped with crunchy walnuts, tangy feta cheese, and crispy bacon, all drizzled with a creamy poppy seed dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a light lunch, or craving a healthy side dish, this salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Join us as we dive into the world of Strawberry Spinach Salad and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated onion
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/3 cup plus one tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Strawberry Spinach Salad Ingredients:
- 12 ounces mixed salad greens including baby spinach, romaine, and spring greens
- 1/4 large red onion, very thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb strawberries, sliced
- 2/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 3/4 cup feta cheese
- 4 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together cider vinegar, granulated sugar, grated onion, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until well combined.
- Gradually add mayonnaise, whisking continuously, until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Strawberry Spinach Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed salad greens, thinly sliced red onion, sliced strawberries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled bacon.
- Drizzle the creamy poppy seed dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Preparation Tips: To make this salad ahead of time, you can prepare the dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wait to dress the salad until just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Substitutions: Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences. You can swap the walnuts for pecans or almonds, use goat cheese instead of feta, or add additional toppings like avocado or grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version of this salad, omit the bacon and feta cheese. You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey in the dressing for a vegan sweetener option.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the granulated sugar in the dressing with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Reduce the amount of strawberries to lower the carb content.
- Skip the onions or use them sparingly to further reduce the carb count.
Low-Carb Version:
- Substitute the granulated sugar in the dressing with a low-carb sweetener.
- Opt for low-carb nuts like almonds or pecans instead of walnuts.
- Use a moderate amount of strawberries and onions to keep the carb count in check.
In conclusion, Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that’s sure to impress your taste buds. With its crisp greens, juicy strawberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy poppy seed dressing, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, watching your carbs, or simply looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, this salad is a fantastic choice. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and whip up a batch of Strawberry Spinach Salad today – your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in this salad? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
Q: Can I make the dressing ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just give it a good shake or stir before dressing the salad.
