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Welcome to the delightful world of salads, where we’re taking a delightful spin on a cherished classic with our Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Crunchy Nuts & Poppy Seed Dressing. Historically, salads have been a staple across various cultures, showcasing a beautiful blend of Healthy ingredients and tantalizing flavors. This particular recipe hails from the vibrant heart of the Mediterranean, where fresh, colorful produce is at the core of the cuisine. Its simplicity is what makes it so universally appealing, yet it has the power to transport you to sunny, summer days along the Mediterranean coast with every bite.

What sets this version apart is the inclusion of fresh Strawberries – a sweet twist on the traditional spinach salad. The strawberries add an unexpected and delightful burst of flavor, beautifully complementing the earthy spinach and the crunchy nuts. The homemade poppy seed dressing is the crowning glory, adding an extra layer of flavor complexity with its subtle sweetness and tanginess.

The expected taste experience is a delightful dance of fresh, sweet, and tangy flavors, married with a satisfying crunch from the nuts. It’s a salad that’s as bright and vibrant in taste as it is in appearance. This salad is perfect as a light lunch on a warm day, or serve it as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering, this Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Crunchy Nuts & Poppy Seed Dressing will surely do the trick. Enjoy this burst of freshness and embark on a Mediterranean culinary adventure from the comfort of your home!

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups Fresh Spinach (rinsed and dried)
• 2 cups Fresh Strawberries (hulled and halved)
• 1 cup Crunchy Nuts (such as almonds or pecans, toasted and roughly chopped)

Seasonings and Spices

• 1 tablespoon Poppy Seeds
• 1/4 cup Sugar
• 1/4 cup White Wine Vinegar
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil
• 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon Paprika

Optional Toppings

• 1/2 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled)
• 1 breast Grilled Chicken (sliced, for a protein boost)

Preparation

1. Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry using a clean kitchen towel.
   Tip: Ensure the spinach is completely dry to prevent wilting.
2. For the strawberries, rinse them under cold water and pat dry. Remove the stems and slice them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
   Tip: If the strawberries are very large, quartering them will make them easier to eat.
3. Measure out the crunchy nuts. If they are whole, roughly chop them for easier consumption.
   Tip: You can use any nuts you prefer – walnuts, pecans, or almonds are all good choices.
4. Prepare the grilled chicken breast by cutting it into thin slices.
   Tip: Let the chicken cool down a bit after grilling before slicing to keep it juicy.

Cooking Instructions

1. To make the poppy seed dressing, combine the sugar, white wine vinegar, olive oil, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika in a small bowl.
   Tip: To incorporate the ingredients better, you can use a whisk or a fork.
2. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved.
   Tip: This might take a few minutes, so be patient.
3. Add the poppy seeds into the dressing and stir until evenly distributed.
   Tip: You can add more poppy seeds if you prefer, but remember they have a strong flavor.
4. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it’s too acidic, add a bit more sugar; if it’s too sweet, add a bit more vinegar.
   Tip: Always taste your dressings before adding them to the salad, as the balance of flavors is crucial.

Finishing Touches

1. Place the washed and dried spinach in a large salad bowl.
   Tip: You can tear larger leaves into smaller pieces if you prefer.
2. Add the sliced strawberries, chopped nuts, and sliced grilled chicken to the bowl.
   Tip: Try to distribute the ingredients evenly for a balanced salad.
3. Pour the poppy seed dressing over the salad, making sure to distribute it evenly.
   Tip: Don’t over-dress your salad. It’s better to start with less and add more if needed.
4. Sprinkle the feta cheese over the salad.
   Tip: You can crumble the feta cheese for a more distributed flavor.
5. Toss the salad gently until all the ingredients are well mixed and coated with the dressing.
   Tip: Tossing the salad too vigorously can bruise the spinach and strawberries.
6. Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving if you prefer it chilled.
   Tip: If you’re not serving immediately, add the dressing and cheese just before serving to keep the salad fresh.