Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Vinaigrette – Fresh & Fruity

This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a colorful celebration of spring and summer.

With fresh strawberries, crisp apple and pear slices, pumpkin seeds, and a vibrant homemade strawberry poppyseed vinaigrette, this dish is perfect for a light lunch, dinner side, or festive gathering.

It’s sweet, tangy, crunchy, and beautifully balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seasonal and vibrant – A stunning mix of fruit and greens

Naturally sweet and tangy – From ripe strawberries and honey

Healthy and refreshing – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants

Easy to customize – Swap fruits, seeds, or dressings

Great for entertaining – Crowd-pleasing and visually gorgeous

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Spinach – Tender, nutrient-rich leafy greens

Strawberries – Fresh and juicy for sweetness and color

Apple & pear – Crisp fruit adds texture and depth

Pumpkin seeds – Add crunch and healthy fats

Olive oil – Forms the base of the vinaigrette

Red wine vinegar – Brightens and balances the dressing

Honey – Natural sweetness to pair with berries

Poppy seeds – Nutty and subtle, great for texture

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best dressing

Slice fruit just before serving to prevent browning

Add nuts or cheese (like goat cheese or feta) for extra richness

Let the vinaigrette chill for at least 15 minutes to deepen flavor

Serve immediately after tossing to keep textures fresh

How to Make Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Vinaigrette

Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
Blend ¼ cup water, ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, ½ lb strawberries, and 2 tbsp honey.

Stir in ½ tsp poppy seeds. Chill.

Step 2: Prep the Fruit & Greens
Slice 1 apple, 1 pear, and ½ lb strawberries. Wash/dry 8 oz spinach.

Measure 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Layer spinach, apple, pear, strawberries, and seeds in a bowl.

Drizzle with dressing and toss.

What to Serve With Strawberry Spinach Salad

Grilled chicken or salmon – For a protein-packed meal

Quiche or savory tart – Ideal for brunch

Crusty baguette or sourdough – To complete the plate

Chilled rosé or sparkling water – Refreshing beverage pairing

Variations / Substitutions

Greens swap – Try arugula, mixed baby greens, or romaine

Fruit alternatives – Use blueberries, oranges, or grapes

Add-ins – Goat cheese, pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds

Dressing alternative – Balsamic vinaigrette or lemon vinaigrette

Make it vegan – Swap honey for maple syrup

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Salad (without dressing) can be prepped 1 day in advance

Dressing can be stored in a sealed jar for up to 7 days

Leftovers should be consumed within 24 hours once tossed

Avoid storing with dressing applied – spinach will wilt

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the vinaigrette?
Yes, but thaw them first and reduce the water slightly for a thicker texture.

What type of apples work best?
Sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala pair beautifully.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Just double-check any add-ons like cheese or store-bought seeds.

Can I make this into a meal?
Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon for a protein boost.

Can I prep this salad for a party?
Yes – slice the fruit and make the vinaigrette ahead.

Assemble just before serving.

Can I use white wine vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, it’s a good substitute with a slightly lighter tang.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Spinach Salad with homemade poppyseed vinaigrette is a celebration of fresh, whole ingredients.

It’s sweet, tangy, and totally refreshing – perfect for sunny lunches, picnics, or an elegant starter.

Make it once and you’ll be hooked on its balance of flavor, color, and texture.