Can I use a different type of lettuce instead of spinach?

Absolutely! While spinach provides a nutritional boost and works wonderfully with strawberries, you can substitute mixed greens, arugula, or even romaine. Each brings a different texture and flavor profile to the salad, with arugula adding a peppery note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet strawberries.

Is there a way to make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, this salad is easy to adapt for dairy-free diets. Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. For the dressing, use plant-based mayo and your favorite non-dairy milk. The salad will still have plenty of flavor from the fruits, nuts, and onion.

How can I make this salad more filling for a main course?

Turn this side salad into a satisfying main by adding protein. Grilled chicken breast, seared salmon, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas all work wonderfully. For an extra-hearty version, add quinoa or farro for a complex-carb boost that keeps you fuller longer.

Can I substitute the sugar in the dressing with a natural sweetener?

Definitely! Honey or maple syrup makes an excellent natural substitute for the sugar in the dressing. Start with about 2 tablespoons of either, then adjust to taste. These natural sweeteners add their own subtle flavor notes that complement the fruit beautifully.

Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe

Name: Strawberry Spinach Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (6 ounce) package spinach; 1 (16 ounce) package strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup craisins (dried cranberries); 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup milk; 3 tablespoons sugar; 4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar; 2 teaspoons poppyseeds

Description

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish featuring tender spinach, juicy strawberries, crunchy almonds, sweet craisins, tangy feta cheese, and red onions, all tossed in a creamy homemade poppyseed dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or entertaining, this crowd-pleaser brings together flavors and textures for a delicious salad ready in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad

1 (6 ounce) package spinach
1 (16 ounce) package strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup craisins (dried cranberries)

Creamy Poppyseed Dressing

1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup milk
3 tablespoons sugar
4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons poppyseeds

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Instructions

Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the spinach, sliced strawberries, sliced almonds, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and craisins. Gently toss together until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Prepare Creamy Poppyseed Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and poppyseeds until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
Dress the Salad: Pour the desired amount of creamy poppyseed dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all of the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately.

Notes

You can assemble the salad and make the dressing ahead of time, but combine them just before serving to keep the spinach crisp.
Feel free to substitute goat cheese for feta, or use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds for a different flavor.
Add grilled chicken or avocado for extra protein and make it a full meal.
For a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of salad
Calories: 245
Sugar: 17g
Sodium: 340mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 23mg