Looking for a salad that’s as stunning as it is delicious? This Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing delivers a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. Juicy strawberries, fresh greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy goat cheese come together with a homemade poppy seed dressing for a show-stopping dish. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a dinner side, or a crowd-pleasing potluck addition.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pecans or sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation
- Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside. - Toast the Nuts:
Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans or almonds and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool. - Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion, toasted nuts, and dried cranberries (if using). - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top of the salad. - Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat evenly and serve immediately.
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a heartier meal.
- Vegan Option: Use a vegan cheese substitute or skip the cheese and replace honey with maple syrup.
- Berry Medley: Add blueberries or blackberries for extra color and flavor.
Cooking Note
To prevent sogginess, add the dressing right before serving, especially if preparing the salad ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a light lunch with crusty bread on the side.
- Pair with a grilled protein for a balanced dinner.
- Perfect as a starter for a summer gathering or picnic.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
- Customize the Greens: Try a mix of spinach and arugula for a blend of sweetness and peppery bite.
- Double the Dressing: Make extra poppy seed dressing—it stores well in the fridge for up to a week.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 16g
- Sugar: 8g
FAQs
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the salad ingredients except for the dressing and store them in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving.
What can I use instead of goat cheese?
A: Feta cheese or blue cheese work well, or you can skip the cheese for a dairy-free version.
Can I use store-bought poppy seed dressing?
A: Absolutely! For convenience, a quality store-bought poppy seed dressing is a great alternative.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a fresh and vibrant dish that will elevate any meal. With its combination of sweet strawberries, tangy dressing, and crunchy nuts, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try today!