Strawberry Spinach Balsamic Poppy Seed

The first time I made this salad was during a heatwave when even the thought of turning on the oven made me sweat. I had a punnet of strawberries that needed using and a bag of spinach that was threatening to wilt, and somehow this combination became my go-to summer meal ever since.

Last spring I brought this to a potluck and watched three different people ask for the recipe. The best part was that it barely took any effort, yet everyone kept talking about how fresh and vibrant it tasted. Sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones that steal the show.

Ingredients

• 6 cups baby spinach: I learned the hard way that wet spinach makes for a sad, soggy salad, so take the time to dry it thoroughly with paper towels or a salad spinner
• 1 pint fresh strawberries: Look for berries that are deep red all the way through and smell fragrant, as they will be the star of the show
• 1/2 small red onion: Thinly slicing the onion paper-thin makes its presence known without overpowering everything else
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: The salty creaminess balances the sweet strawberries and ties everything together beautifully
• 1/3 cup toasted almonds: Toast them in a dry pan until fragrant and golden, which brings out their nutty flavor and adds essential crunch
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: A good quality balsamic makes a difference here, as the dressing relies on its rich acidity
• 1 tablespoon honey: Maple syrup works perfectly too and adds a slightly deeper flavor that complements the strawberries
• 1/4 cup olive oil: Extra-virgin gives the dressing a fruity backbone and helps all the flavors coat every leaf

Instructions

Build your base:

In a large salad bowl, pile in the spinach, strawberries, red onion, feta, and almonds, letting the colors create their own beautiful arrangement

Whisk up the magic:

Combine the balsamic, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until it thickens slightly

Add the finishing touch:

Stir in the poppy seeds and season with salt and pepper, then taste and adjust the sweetness or acidity until it sings

Bring it all together:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently with salad tongs until every leaf is lightly coated

Save to Pinterest

This salad has become my thing at summer gatherings, the dish everyone actually wants seconds of. There is something about the combination of sweet berries and salty feta that just works in a way that feels effortless and celebratory at the same time.

Make It Your Own

I have discovered that goat cheese works just as beautifully as feta and adds a slightly tangier note. Pecans or walnuts can replace almonds if that is what you have in your pantry, and dried cranberries make a lovely addition when fresh strawberries are not in season.

Turning It Into A Meal

Grilled chicken slices turn this from side to main in minutes, and I have also added chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian version. Even a poached egg on top makes it feel substantial enough for dinner.

Perfect Pairings

This salad shines alongside anything from the grill, especially herb-crusted salmon or a simple roasted chicken. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness of the feta and complements the sweet strawberries.

• Make extra dressing and use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or shrimp
• The salad travels well if you pack the dressing separately and toss it on site
• Add avocado slices for extra creaminess that holds up beautifully

Save to Pinterest

There is something deeply satisfying about a salad that looks this stunning and tastes even better. Here is to many impromptu meals that feel like celebrations.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Prepare ingredients separately in advance. Combine spinach, strawberries, and toppings just before serving. Store dressing in a sealed jar for up to a week.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese, blue cheese, or vegan cashew cheese work beautifully. For dairy-free options, simply omit cheese or use avocado for creaminess.

→ How do I toast almonds?

Spread almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 5-8 minutes, shaking pan halfway through. Watch closely as nuts can burn quickly.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries work wonderfully. Sliced peaches or nectarines make excellent summer substitutes for strawberries.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers keep 1-2 days if dressed sparingly, but spinach will wilt. Store undressed components separately in airtight containers.