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As the warm weather approaches, the allure of seasonal salads becomes irresistible, inviting us to indulge in fresh and vibrant flavors. Among the myriad of summer salad options, the Spinach Strawberry Poppyseed Salad stands out not only for its stunning presentation but also for its delightful blend of tastes and textures. This salad is a refreshing symphony of sweet strawberries, crunchy nuts, and creamy feta, all harmonized by a tangy poppy seed dressing that elevates the dish to new heights.

Spinach Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

Elevate your summer meals with the refreshing Spinach Strawberry Poppyseed Salad! This vibrant dish combines fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts, all dressed in a tangy poppy seed vinaigrette. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this salad is both delicious and nutritious. Perfect as a light main or side for picnics, gatherings, or a healthy lunch at home, it's sure to impress with its delightful flavors and stunning presentation. Dive into a bowl of summer goodness today!
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Ingredients
  

6 cups fresh baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried

2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled into small pieces

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced for a mild bite

½ cup candied pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped for texture

¼ cup poppy seeds, for a nutty crunch

½ cup extra virgin olive oil, high quality for best flavor

¼ cup apple cider vinegar, for a tangy note

2 tablespoons honey, to balance the acidity

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Add the honey and sprinkle in the poppy seeds. Whisk the mixture vigorously with a fork or secure the lid on the jar and shake until all ingredients are combined and emulsified. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.

    Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, start by placing the washed and dried baby spinach at the bottom. Next, artfully arrange the sliced strawberries across the spinach for a pop of color. Sprinkle on the crumbled feta cheese and the thinly sliced red onions to enhance the salad's flavor profile.

      Add the Nuts: Delicately sprinkle the chopped candied pecans or walnuts over the top of the salad. This will provide a delightful sweetness and crunch with each bite.

        Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared poppy seed dressing evenly over the salad. Take care to gently toss the salad with a pair of salad tongs or two forks, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated in the dressing and every bite is infused with flavor.

          Serve Immediately: To savor the best flavor and texture, serve this vibrant and refreshing salad right away. Consider placing the salad in individual bowls for a beautiful presentation.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

              - Presentation Tips: To enhance the visual appeal, consider garnishing the salad with a few whole strawberries and additional feta cheese on top before serving.