Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Introduction
Every time I make Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing, I can’t help but smile and feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It takes me back to warm summer days spent with family, laughter filling the air as we shared meals on the patio. I remember the first time I made this salad for a gathering; it was a hit among friends and family alike. The vivid colors of fresh strawberries and greens, combined with that delightful poppy seed dressing, created a picture-perfect dish that brought everyone together. I know that once you try this refreshing salad, you’ll feel the same warmth and joy that it brings to my heart—and to the hearts of those who share it with their loved ones.
In our busy lives, it’s often the simple, wholesome dishes that create the most lasting memories. This Strawberry Salad has a unique ability to elevate any meal, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delicious dish together. I promise, it will soon become a favorite for you and your family, just like it has for me!
How to Make Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 2 1/2 tablespoons |
| Grated onion | 1 tablespoon |
| Dijon mustard | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Poppy seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Mayonnaise | 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Mixed salad greens (including baby spinach, romaine, and spring greens) | 12 ounces |
| Red onion (very thinly sliced) | 1/4 large |
| Strawberries (sliced) | 1/2 lb |
| Chopped walnuts | 2/3 cup |
| Feta cheese | 3/4 cup |
| Crispy cooked bacon (crumbled) | 4 slices |
I always recommend choosing fresh ingredients. They can make a world of difference in terms of flavor and presentation. If you prefer, you can swap out the walnuts for pecans, or leave out the bacon for a vegetarian option. However you choose to make it, I truly believe this salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Cooking Steps
1. Prepare Your Dressing
Start with making the poppy seed dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, granulated sugar, grated onion, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and mayonnaise. You can adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more sugar if you like it on the sweeter side, or you may consider a little extra vinegar for a tangier taste. Trust me; playing with these elements can help you achieve the perfect balance that suits your palate.
2. Season It Right
Once your dressing is mixed, go ahead and add salt and pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning is very personal! The right amount can truly enhance the flavor.
3. Assemble Your Greens
In a large wide bowl, lay out a bed of mixed salad greens. I like to combine baby spinach, romaine, and spring greens for a variety of textures and flavors. The more vibrant your greens, the prettier your salad will look!
4. Add the Red Onion
Next, top your greens with the thinly sliced red onion. This adds a nice crunch and sharpness that balances out the sweetness of the strawberries. Don’t be afraid—just a little bit goes a long way!
5. Layer on the Strawberries
Now it’s time for the star of the show: the sliced strawberries! Their vibrant color is not just beautiful; they bring a delightful sweetness that makes this salad feel truly special.
6. Sprinkle the Walnuts
Add the chopped walnuts for a lovely crunch. These add not only texture but also healthy fats, making the salad more satisfying.
7. Crumble Some Feta
Now, let’s make it even more delicious with some feta cheese. The creamy texture and tangy flavor of feta add a fantastic contrast to the sweet and nutty elements of the salad.
8. Crumble the Bacon
Lastly, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top. If you’re a bacon lover like me, this step is essential! It adds a smoky flavor that brings everything together.
9. Drizzle the Dressing
Drizzle the dressing generously over the top of your salad. You can always serve some extra on the side for those who want a little more.
10. Toss Lightly and Serve
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients, making sure everything is coated in that luscious dressing. Serve promptly so everything stays fresh and crisp.
Why I Love Making This Dish
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about preparing a dish that brings people together. This Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is one of those recipes that creates smiles around the table. During warm summer evenings, when the sun sets and the fireflies start to dance, I love serving this salad as part of our outdoor picnics or family gatherings. Not only does it look stunning, but it tastes like pure joy!
And let’s talk about how versatile it is! You can whip it up for a simple lunch, take it to a potluck, or even serve it at a gathering. Guess what? Everyone loves it!
What You’ll Need
Besides the ingredients, you’ll need a few basic tools: a mixing bowl for the dressing, a whisk (or a mason jar if you prefer shaking), a large salad bowl, and a knife for slicing. Having a good set of kitchen tools makes the process much more enjoyable!
Tips for Perfect Results
Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use the freshest produce you can find. Local farmers’ markets are a great option for this!
Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste your dressing and adjust flavors. Remember, cooking is about making it your own!
Don’t Over-toss: Gently tossing the salad will help keep your greens crisp without bruising them.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. You can even have it as a side to a hearty soup for a satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a delightful drink to accompany it, a light sparkling lemonade or iced tea complements the bright flavors perfectly.
Leftovers
If you find you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the components separately. The salad greens can wilt quickly, so keeping the dressing and salad ingredients in separate containers will keep them fresh for longer. Just combine them again before serving. You can also enjoy the strawberries and feta in a breakfast smoothie or on toast!
FAQ Section
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Absolutely! I often make a batch of the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for about a week, and the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are best for this salad, if you only have frozen, they can work. Just remember they will be softer, so perhaps reserve those for a smoothie instead.
Is it okay to skip the bacon?
Of course! You can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon. The salad is still divine without it!
Conclusion
This Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m positively thrilled to share it with you! Every bite feels like a burst of sunshine, and I can’t wait for you to try it too. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just a little treat for yourself, I truly believe you’ll fall in love with it just as I have. Please let me know how it turns out and if your family keeps going back for seconds, just like mine does! Happy cooking!