Fruit and Spinach Salad with Strawberry Vinaigrette

This fresh and vibrant fruit and spinach salad with homemade strawberry vinaigrette is a perfect light and healthy dish. Packed with crisp apple, pear, and sweet strawberries, it’s complemented by a tangy poppyseed vinaigrette made from fresh ingredients like honey and red wine vinegar. The addition of pumpkin seeds provides a delightful crunch, making this salad a great choice for a nutritious side dish or a refreshing main course. With simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare and ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 apple, cored and sliced
• 1 pear, cored and sliced
• ½ lb strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 8 oz spinach leaves (about ½ lb)

For the Strawberry Poppyseed Vinaigrette: (Makes enough for 2 salads)

• ¼ cup cold filtered water
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar (or to taste)
• ½ lb fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (about 1 ½ cups)
• 2 Tbsp honey
• ½ tsp poppy seeds

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Instructions:

1. Make the Dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine ¼ cup cold water, ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, ½ lb strawberries, and 2 Tbsp honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add Poppy Seeds: Add the ½ tsp poppy seeds to the dressing and pulse once more to combine. Refrigerate the dressing for up to a week.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apple, pear, strawberries, and pumpkin seeds. Add the desired amount of strawberry poppyseed vinaigrette and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fruit and spinach salad is a vibrant, healthy, and refreshing option that combines sweet fruits with the earthy flavors of fresh spinach. The homemade strawberry vinaigrette adds a delightful tangy-sweet touch to the dish, making it an ideal accompaniment to lunch, dinner, or a light appetizer. The addition of pumpkin seeds provides a satisfying crunch, enhancing both the texture and nutritional value of the salad.

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Tips

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more honey to the vinaigrette to balance the tartness of the strawberries and vinegar.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the dressing and salad for the best flavor.
• Chill the Salad: If preparing ahead of time, store the salad components separately and toss with dressing just before serving to prevent wilting.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Add Nuts: Substitute pumpkin seeds with your favorite nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
• Other Fruits: Try adding other fruits like blueberries, mango, or orange slices to mix up the flavor profile.
• Dressing Alternative: If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can substitute the olive oil with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

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FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the strawberry vinaigrette can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I use pre-packaged spinach?
Yes, you can use pre-washed, bagged spinach if you’re looking for convenience. Just be sure to give it a quick rinse before use.

How can I make this salad more filling?
To make this salad more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken, feta cheese, or quinoa for a protein boost.

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Serving Suggestions

This fruit and spinach salad is perfect for pairing with grilled meats like chicken or salmon for a light and balanced meal. It also works beautifully as a side dish at barbecues or brunch gatherings. For a more hearty meal, add protein-rich ingredients such as chickpeas, tofu, or a hard-boiled egg.