Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This vibrant salad combines crispy spinach with juicy strawberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta, topped with a homemade balsamic dressing. It’s perfect for a healthy meal or a barbecue.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¾ cup raw pecans
  • ½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
  • 10 ounces fresh baby spinach (or a 50/50 arugula and spinach blend)
  • 1 quart strawberries, hulled and quartered (about 1 pound)
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably block-style)
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 1 ½ tablespoons honey
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and toast the pecans for 8-10 minutes until fragrant.
  • Soak the sliced red onion in cold water to mellow its flavor.
  • Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  • In a large bowl, layer spinach, strawberries, and drained onion. Drizzle with half the dressing and toss.
  • Top with crumbled feta and toasted pecans, toss lightly, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Make the dressing ahead of time to allow flavors to merge.
Toast pecans just before serving for maximum freshness.

  • Author: jesseca
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Tossing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg