“Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppyseed Dressing”

Is any one ready for Spring? I know I am but it seems we just keep getting teased. I bought beautiful strawberries this week and they were so sweet. Definitely not a norm for this time of year. I had some baby spinach in the refrigerator I needed to use. Behold my Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppyseed Dressing was born. Fresh baby spinach, strawberries and chopped nuts tossed with a slightly sweet, oil and vinegar based dressing I tossed together until I got the right combination of flavors.. The dressing has a few poppyseeds added in. Just call it a little texture for your tongue. This salad is great for lunch as well as for dinner. Try your hand at making your own salad dressing. Let me know what you create or do you have a favorite dressing you use?

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Spinach Strawberry Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

5 oz. – 6 oz. pkg. baby spinach

1/3 cup rice vinegar

2 T. sugar

½ t. dry mustard

2 t. poppy seeds

¾ cup olive oil or grapeseed oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced in half

¼ cup candied walnuts or pecans, coarsely chopped

In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, dry mustard, poppy seeds, and pinch of salt and pepper. Add oil and whisk constantly until dressing is well blended.

In a large bowl, toss together spinach, strawberries and walnuts. Add half of the vinaigrette; toss salad gently to coat. Add more vinaigrette if needed.

Note: Do not mix this salad until ready to serve as strawberries and salad dressing will wilt spinach. Add Bleu Cheese crumbles for a savory touch. You may find candied nuts mixed with dried fruit like cranberries or blueberries. These are delicious in the salad.

Make individual spinach salads as needed for lunch and dinner serving salad dressing on the side.