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As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, fresh salads become an essential part of healthy eating. They not only offer a refreshing escape from the heat but also provide a powerhouse of nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day. Among the myriad of salad options available, the Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing stands out as a vibrant and nutritious choice. This delightful dish harmonizes the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the earthy notes of baby spinach, complemented by the crunch of sliced almonds and the creamy tang of feta cheese.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with this Refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad featuring a delightful Poppy Seed Dressing. Combining sweet strawberries, earthy baby spinach, crunchy sliced almonds, and creamy feta, this salad is both nutritious and visually appealing. Perfect for picnics, casual meals, or elegant dinner parties, it's easy to prepare and packed with vitamins and healthy fats. Enjoy a tasty, wholesome dish that celebrates fresh seasonal produce. Dive into this recipe and elevate your summer dining!

Ingredients
  

6 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup poppy seeds

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:

1/2 cup vegetable oil (or alternative)

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Poppy Seed Dressing:

    - In a medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until well combined.

      - Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity as necessary. Set aside.

        Toast the Almonds:

          - In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the sliced almonds. Toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.

            Assemble the Salad:

              - In a large salad bowl, place the fresh baby spinach as the base.

                - Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries, toasted almonds, crumbled feta cheese, and red onion over the spinach.

                  Dress the Salad:

                    - Drizzle the prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving.

                      - Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing, ensuring not to bruise the spinach or strawberries.

                        Serve:

                          - Serve immediately, garnished with a few extra poppy seeds or fresh strawberries, if desired.

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