Save This spinach strawberry salad with poppy seed dressing is one of my favorite fresh and colorful ways to brighten up any meal or gathering. The combination of crisp spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy almonds, and sweet creamy dressing always feels like a celebration of spring no matter the season.
I brought this salad to a summer picnic last year and it disappeared in minutes. Everyone requested the recipe because it is both effortless and so delicious.
Ingredients
- Baby spinach leaves: Tender texture and mild flavor Look for bright green leaves with no wilting
- Fresh strawberries: Ripe and juicy Select berries that smell fragrant and have vivid red color
- Sliced almonds: Crunchy texture and nutty taste Toast lightly for extra flavor
- Poppy seed dressing: Sweet tangy creaminess Use a quality bottled dressing or homemade if you prefer
Instructions
- Prepare the Greens:
- Wash baby spinach in cool water and spin dry thoroughly Any moisture left on the leaves will water down the dressing so dry with a salad spinner or clean towel for best texture
- Slice the Strawberries:
- Hull strawberries and cut into even thin slices This gives every bite a perfect balance of sweetness
- Toast the Almonds:
- Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium low heat Shake the pan occasionally until you smell a light nutty aroma and the almonds are just golden about two to three minutes Watch carefully so they do not burn
- Build the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl combine spinach sliced strawberries and almonds together Gently toss to evenly distribute everything
- Add the Dressing and Serve:
- Drizzle poppy seed dressing evenly over the top right before serving Use just enough to lightly coat each ingredient Toss gently and serve immediately for the freshest salad
Save Strawberries always remind me of early summer harvests with my grandparents. This salad makes me grateful for family memories in the kitchen and time spent picking sun ripened berries together.
Storage Tips
This salad tastes best served fresh so the spinach stays crisp and the dressing does not wilt the greens. If you want to prepare in advance keep the spinach strawberries and toasted almonds separate in airtight containers. Only add the dressing just before serving for the best texture. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to one day but are most enjoyable right away.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can mix things up and use baby arugula or spring mix instead of spinach. Try substituting walnuts or pecans for the almonds if you prefer a richer crunch. Goat cheese or feta crumbles add a creamy tang if you like added richness. Almost any fruit like blueberries raspberries or thinly sliced apples works beautifully in place of strawberries.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light lunch with crusty bread or as a side for grilled chicken fish or quiche. It makes a lovely starter for spring and summer dinner parties. Add grilled shrimp or salmon on top for an easy main dish packed with nutrition.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Spinach strawberry salad is inspired by classic American and European spring salads that feature fresh produce from farmers markets. Strawberries and spinach are both in peak season in late spring and early summer giving this salad its signature freshness and color.
Seasonal Adaptations
For a fall version swap strawberries for sliced pears and add dried cranberries In winter use citrus slices like oranges or mandarins for bright flavor In summer toss in fresh basil or mint leaves for a fragrant finish
Success Stories
Friends often tell me this salad is the highlight of their gatherings. One reader used it for Mother’s Day brunch and had requests for the recipe from all the guests. It often steals the show at potlucks and picnics because everyone appreciates how refreshing and vibrant it is.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Because of the delicate strawberries and tender spinach this salad is not suitable for freezing. For meal prep make all the toppings ahead and keep ingredients chilled in separate containers then assemble just before serving.
Save This salad is always a showstopper and a wonderful way to bring a pop of color to any table. I hope you love sharing it as much as I do.
Recipe FAQs
- → How should the spinach be prepared?
Use fresh baby spinach, washed and well-dried for crisp texture in the salad.
- → Can I substitute almonds with another nut?
Sliced pecans or walnuts are great alternatives to almonds, offering similar crunch and flavor.
- → What type of strawberries works best?
Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the freshest taste and best texture in your salad.
- → Is homemade or store-bought poppy seed dressing better?
Both work well; homemade allows you to adjust sweetness and creaminess to your liking.
- → Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Combine all ingredients except the dressing and refrigerate. Add dressing just before serving for best freshness.