Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines sweet strawberries, creamy avocado, and crisp spinach leaves. The homemade poppyseed dressing adds a perfect balance of tang and sweetness, making this salad a delightful choice for summer lunches, picnics, or light dinners. It’s not only beautiful to serve but also packed with nutrients and flavor.

ingredients

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

fresh baby spinachfresh strawberriesripe avocadored onionslivered almondsfeta cheesepoppy seedsmayonnectric vinegarhoneyDijon mustardolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Wash and dry the baby spinach, then place it in a large salad bowl.

Hull and slice the strawberries, peel and slice the avocado, and thinly slice the red onion.

Add the strawberries, avocado, red onion, slivered almonds, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with spinach.

In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.

Drizzle the poppyseed dressing over the salad just before serving and gently toss to coat.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesDressing preparation: 5 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Use goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different flavor.

Toss in blueberries, raspberries, or mandarin oranges for extra fruit variety.

Use mixed greens instead of just spinach for added texture.

Top with crunchy croutons or sunflower seeds for a bit more crunch.

storage/reheating

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Avocados may brown, so it’s best to add them just before serving.
The poppyseed dressing can be stored for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Do not freeze this salad.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate and add avocado just before serving.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use bottled poppyseed dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing offers fresher flavor and control over ingredients.

What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute.

Is this salad vegan?

Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative and ensure the dressing ingredients are plant-based.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes, skip the almonds or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.

How do I keep avocados from browning?

Add them just before serving or toss them lightly with lemon juice.

Conclusion

Strawberry Avocado Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing is a colorful, nutrient-rich salad that’s as satisfying as it is simple. The mix of sweet, creamy, and tangy elements makes it perfect for warm days or as a vibrant side dish. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for healthy and delicious meals.

Print