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Strawberry Spinach Salad with a Fresh Berry Bite

A fresh spinach salad with strawberries, toasted pecans, red onion, feta cheese, and a balsamic poppy seed dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Strawberry Spinach Salad
  • 3/4 cup raw pecans
  • 1/2 small red onion very thinly sliced
  • 10 ounces fresh baby spinach
  • 1 quart strawberries hulled and quartered, about 1 pound
  • 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Poppy Seed Dressing
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet or baking sheet
  • Large serving bowl
  • Small bowl or jar
  • Whisk or lid for shaking
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Salad tongs

Method
 

  1. Toast the pecans in the oven or in a skillet until fragrant, then let them cool.
  2. Slice the red onion very thinly. To soften its sharp flavor, soak the slices in water while preparing the rest of the salad, then drain.
  3. Add the spinach to a large serving bowl.
  4. Add the strawberries, toasted pecans, drained red onion, and crumbled feta over the spinach.
  5. In a small bowl or jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Whisk or shake the dressing until it comes together.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad shortly before serving.
  8. Toss gently so the spinach and toppings are lightly coated, then serve right away.

Notes

Dress the salad shortly before serving for the freshest texture.
Cool toasted pecans before adding them to the spinach.
Keep the dressing separate if making the salad ahead.