Spinach Salad With Strawberries And Pecans
A fresh and vibrant spinach salad featuring juicy strawberries and crunchy pecans, tossed in a tangy poppy seed dressing—perfect for light lunches or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine torn spinach, halved strawberries, and toasted pecan halves in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with poppy seed dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or sliced red onions for added flavor. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or sliced almonds can work well as substitutes for pecans. To enhance the salad's sweetness, try using ripe, in-season strawberries. If you want a lighter dressing, a simple balsamic vinaigrette could also be a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It's also a fantastic side dish alongside dishes like Sweet Potato Cole Slaw or hearty sandwiches. For a refreshing summer meal, consider serving it as part of a picnic spread or alongside Anne'S Most Requested Brownies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the spinach from wilting, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. Reheating is not recommended as this salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, serve it cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Salad With Strawberries And Pecans contains roughly 168 calories, with 1g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the spinach, strawberries, and pecans in advance. However, it's best to wait to add the dressing until just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. If you store the components separately, they will stay crisp and flavorful.
What can I substitute for poppy seed dressing?
If you don't have poppy seed dressing on hand, a light balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing can work well. For a homemade option, mix olive oil, vinegar, honey, and a pinch of mustard for a quick alternative that complements the salad nicely.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this salad is suitable for vegan diets as long as you choose a vegan poppy seed dressing or make your own. Check the label of store-bought dressings to ensure they don't contain dairy or other animal products.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).