Strawberry Spinach Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy elements. The juicy strawberries provide natural sweetness, while the spinach adds a mild, slightly peppery taste. The dressing enhances these flavors with its tangy notes, making it a versatile side dish or a light main course.

Ingredients

• 2 bunches spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
• 4 cups sliced strawberries
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup white sugar
• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, white sugar, white wine vinegar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and paprika until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the torn spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
3. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
4. Serve: Transfer the salad to serving plates and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Nuts: Add toasted almonds or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Cheese: Incorporate crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture.
• Herbs: Garnish with fresh mint or basil to enhance the flavor profile.
• Dressing: Substitute the white wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a different tangy note.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover salad, store the dressing separately from the salad components to prevent wilting. The dressing can be refrigerated for up to a week. Assemble the salad fresh when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this salad?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen strawberries may release excess water upon thawing, affecting the salad’s consistency.

2. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, ensure the dressing is free from honey or other animal products. You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

3. Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and shake well before using.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

5. How can I add protein to this salad?

To add protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

6. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.

7. How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, store the dressing separately and add it to the salad just before serving.

8. Can I use a store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing enhances the flavor, you can use a store-bought balsamic vinaigrette as an alternative.

9. How can I make the salad spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a subtle heat.

10. Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Yes, adding fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced apples can provide additional flavors and textures.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Its simplicity and adaptability allow for various modifications to suit your taste preferences. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.