Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Why make this recipe
Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful and nutritious dish. It’s fresh, colorful, and full of flavor. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner. The sweetness of the strawberries and the crunch of the almonds blend beautifully with the creamy dressing. It’s simple to make and uses fresh ingredients that are good for you. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy spinach, a veggie packed with vitamins and minerals.
How to make Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients :
- 5 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 cup sliced strawberries or alternative fresh fruit
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Directions :
- Wash the baby spinach in cold water and pat it dry.
- Thinly slice the red onion and set it aside. If using strawberries or another fresh fruit, slice it as well.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, being careful not to burn them.
- In a large bowl, add the spinach, red onion, sliced fruit, and toasted almonds. Toss gently.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, sugar, and poppy seeds. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra feta and poppy seeds if desired.
How to serve Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Serve the Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing right away for the best taste and texture. You can present it in a large bowl for sharing or divide it into individual plates. Adding extra feta cheese and a sprinkle of poppy seeds on top makes it look even more appealing.
How to store Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spinach may wilt after a day, so it’s best to eat it within a day for freshness. You can store the dressing separately to keep it fresh for longer.
Tips to make Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
- Always wash your spinach before using it to remove any dirt.
- Consider adding other ingredients like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Make sure to toast the almonds carefully to keep them crunchy and enhance their flavor.
Variation
You can customize this salad with other fruits too. Try using blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. If you want a different flavor, replace feta cheese with goat cheese.
FAQs
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s better to mix the dressing with the salad just before serving. This will keep the spinach fresh and crisp.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts, pecans, or any nut you prefer. Just remember to toast them for added flavor.
Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients
Method
- Wash the baby spinach in cold water and pat it dry.
- Thinly slice the red onion and set it aside.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, being careful not to burn them.
- In a large bowl, add the spinach, red onion, sliced fruit, and toasted almonds. Toss gently.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, sugar, and poppy seeds. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra feta and poppy seeds if desired.
