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Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad

Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad: A Fresh Twist for Summer Feasts

Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad offers vibrant colors and flavors, making it a perfect summer dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1/4 cup sugar Adds sweetness for caramelizing almonds; can substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia.
  • 1/3 cup slivered almonds Provides a delightful crunch; feel free to swap with pecans or walnuts.
  • 1 bunch romaine, torn (about 8 cups); can also use spinach or mixed greens.
  • 1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced Opt for milder varieties like Vidalia if preferred.
  • 2 cups halved fresh strawberries Can substitute with blueberries or seasonal fruits.
For the Poppy Seed Dressing
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise Brings creaminess; Greek yogurt is a great alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar Adjust based on taste preference.
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream Adds tanginess; can eliminate it or use extra mayonnaise.
  • 1 tablespoon 2% milk Any milk or dairy-free version works.
  • 2-1/4 teaspoons cider vinegar Lemon juice serves as a fine substitute.
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • tongs

Method
 

Candied Almonds
  1. In a small, heavy skillet, heat 1/4 cup sugar over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until it turns a caramel color, about 8–10 minutes. Add 1/3 cup slivered almonds, coating them in caramel, then spread onto foil to cool.
Assemble Salad Base
  1. Combine 1 bunch of torn romaine, 1 small thinly sliced onion, and 2 cups of halved fresh strawberries in a large bowl. Toss gently.
Whisk Dressing
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon sour cream, 1 tablespoon of 2% milk, and 2-1/4 teaspoons cider vinegar. Stir in 1-1/2 teaspoons of poppy seeds until smooth.
Combine Salad and Dressing
  1. Pour dressing over the salad mix. Using tongs, toss until completely combined.
Add Candied Almonds
  1. Break cooled candied almonds into pieces and sprinkle over the salad. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, keep salad and dressing separate until ready to serve.

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