Ingredients
— The Salad —
8 oz fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup fresh blueberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese)
1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
— Balsamic Poppyseed Dressing —
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small mason jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper. Seal the jar and shake vigorously (or whisk well) until the dressing is completely emulsified. Set aside.
2. **Toast the Nuts (Optional):** Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. **Assemble the Salad Base:** In a large serving bowl, add the fresh baby spinach. Top evenly with the sliced strawberries, fresh blueberries, and thinly sliced red onion.
4. **Add the Toppings:** Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and cooled toasted pecans evenly over the top of the fruit and greens.
5. **Dress and Serve:** Just before serving, give the dressing another good shake and drizzle lightly over the salad. Gently toss to coat the leaves and fruit. Serve immediately, offering any extra dressing on the side.
Notes
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing up to 5 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Wash and prep the fruit and greens, but keep everything stored in separate containers until right before serving so the spinach doesn’t wilt.
Protein Additions: To make this a hearty main course, top the salad with sliced grilled chicken breast, flaked salmon, or a scoop of cooked quinoa.
Nut-Free Option: Swap out the pecans for sunflower seeds or pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for a delicious, crunchy, nut-free alternative.
Vegan Adaptation: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: American