Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and a unique dressing. It’s colorful, refreshing, and perfect for warm days. This salad stands out with the sweetness of strawberries and the crunch of almonds. It’s a great choice for picnics, potlucks, or just a healthy lunch at home!
How to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup slivered almonds
- 1 bunch romaine, torn (about 8 cups)
- 1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 2 cups halved fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 tablespoon 2 percent milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Directions:
- In a small heavy skillet, place the 1/4 cup sugar. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until the sugar melts and turns a caramel color, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the slivered almonds until they are fully coated with the sugar. Spread the almonds on foil to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the torn romaine, sliced onion, and halved strawberries.
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sugar, sour cream, milk, cider vinegar, and poppy seeds to make the dressing.
- Toss the salad with the dressing until everything is well coated.
- Break the cooled candied almonds into pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the salad.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it on its own as a healthy snack.
How to Store Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, as the salad can become soggy over time.
Tips to Make Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
- For added flavor, consider toasting the almonds lightly before coating them in sugar.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best taste and texture.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to put the salad together.
Variation
You can add other fruits like blueberries or mandarin oranges for a fruity twist. If you prefer, replace Romaine with spinach or a mixed greens base.
FAQs
1. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, walnuts or pecans work well as substitutes for slivered almonds.
2. Is it possible to make the salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but do not mix them or add the dressing until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crispy.
3. What can I serve with Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a brunch spread.
