Poppy Seed Tossed Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp greens, fresh fruits, and crunchy nuts with a sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing. This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal side dish or light meal. The poppy seed dressing, with its blend of sweetness and a hint of acidity, ties all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious and delightful taste experience. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or a simple family dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its bright colors and delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds or candied pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced strawberries, mandarin orange segments, red onion, almonds or pecans, and cucumber if using. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Add the Dressing:
- Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top if using, and serve immediately.
This Poppy Seed Tossed Salad is a delightful blend of fresh and flavorful ingredients that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing adds a unique twist, making this salad a standout dish that everyone will love.
