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Close-up of a healthy strawberry spinach salad with pecans and feta in a wooden bowl.

Refreshing Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing

A fresh and vibrant salad featuring sweet strawberries, crisp greens, creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and a tangy homemade balsamic poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a light meal or an elegant side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 6 cups mixed greens spring mix or baby spinach
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 4 oz goat cheese crumbled
  • 1/2 cup pecans toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
For the Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp poppy seeds
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small bowl or jar with lid
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. If using a jar, close the lid and shake well. Set aside.
Prepare the Salad Components
  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens. Hull and slice the fresh strawberries. Crumble the goat cheese. If not already toasted, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then let cool and roughly chop. Thinly slice the red onion.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, and thinly sliced red onion.
Dress and Serve
  1. Drizzle the homemade balsamic poppy seed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

Toasting Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds a deeper crunch. Watch them carefully as they can burn quickly. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or spread on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Make Ahead: The dressing can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Shake well before use. Keep salad components separate and combine just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Variations: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, or try other fruits like blueberries or mandarins. Feta cheese can be used instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.