Spinach and Strawberry Salad
A quick and tasty strawberry spinach salad bursting with fresh flavors, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta, all tied together by a creamy poppy seed dressing. Ideal for light lunches or as a side dish.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- 1 Salad Spinner
- Measuring Cups and Spoons (set)
- 1 Serving Bowl or Platter
Ingredients
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 1 cup thinly sliced strawberries
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 recipe Poppy Seed Dressing
Instructions
- Prepare Fresh Spinach Leaves: Start by thoroughly rinsing 5 ounces of fresh spinach under cold running water. Use your hands to gently separate the leaves to ensure all dirt or grit is removed. After washing, place the spinach in a salad spinner and spin it until completely dry. Removing excess moisture is essential to prevent the salad from becoming soggy and to help the dressing cling evenly to the leaves.
- Slice Strawberries Thinly and Evenly: Wash and hull fresh strawberries before slicing. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice 1 cup of strawberries into thin, even pieces. Thin slices allow the natural sweetness of the strawberries to blend smoothly with the other salad ingredients, ensuring every bite has balanced flavor and texture.
- Prepare Red Onion Slices: Peel a small red onion and slice ⅓ cup thinly into half-moon shapes. Thin slicing reduces the sharpness of the onion’s flavor, making it more palatable and enhancing the salad’s overall freshness without overpowering the sweet and tangy notes.
- Toast Pecans for Crunch and Flavor: To bring out the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, toast ½ cup in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and cook until they become fragrant and lightly browned, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. Allow pecans to cool completely before adding to the salad. Toasting not only intensifies flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch.
- Combine Salad Ingredients Gently: In a large mixing bowl, place the dried spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and red onion. Add a portion of your prepared poppy seed dressing—start with about half the amount you intend to use. Using clean salad tongs or your hands, gently toss the ingredients together to coat everything evenly without bruising the spinach or strawberries.
- Add Pecans and Feta Cheese Carefully: Once the greens and fruit are lightly dressed, sprinkle the toasted pecans and 2 ounces of crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Gently toss again, taking care not to crush the delicate ingredients. The pecans add texture and richness, while the feta contributes a creamy, slightly salty element that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Final Dressing and Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your salad and decide if it needs more dressing for extra moisture and flavor. Add more poppy seed dressing in small increments, tossing gently each time to ensure even distribution. Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, which will enhance all the flavors and balance sweetness and acidity.
- Serve Fresh and Enjoy Immediately: For best taste and texture, serve the salad immediately after final tossing. If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the crispness of the spinach and strawberries. Present the salad in a large, attractive serving bowl or platter to highlight its colorful appeal.
Notes
This strawberry spinach salad is a versatile and easy-to-prepare dish that shines with fresh ingredients. When selecting strawberries, choose firm, ripe ones for the best natural sweetness and bright color. Be sure to toast the pecans gently to enhance their flavor—avoid overheating, which can cause bitterness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can omit the feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative. The poppy seed dressing is key to tying all flavors together; however, if you're short on time, a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, honey, and lemon juice can work well too. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp and vibrant.
