Description
A simple recipe for a fresh salad combining spinach, strawberries, and candied pecans, finished with a homemade poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and candied
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- For the Dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil
- For the Dressing: 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- For the Dressing: 1 tablespoon honey
- For the Dressing: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- For the Dressing: 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- For the Dressing: Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the candied pecans if not using pre-made. Toss pecans with 1 teaspoon of sugar and a splash of water, then toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until sugar caramelizes slightly. Set aside to cool.
- Make the dressing: In a small jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Seal the jar and shake well until the dressing emulsifies.
- In a large bowl, combine the washed spinach, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta (if using), and sliced red onion (if using).
- Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of poppy seed dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss gently to coat everything lightly.
- Sprinkle the candied pecans over the top of the salad. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute slivered almonds for pecans if you prefer a different nut.
- For a heartier meal, add 4 ounces of grilled, sliced chicken breast.
- Prepare the dressing up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Shake well before using.
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar in the dressing for a tangier flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Salad Assembly
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (without chicken)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 10