This fruity and fresh salad is packed with strawberries, blueberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed together with a tasty poppyseed dressing. Perfect for a light meal or side!
Every bite feels like a summer picnic, and you might find yourself sneaking those juicy strawberries before serving! 🍓 I love to enjoy it with some grilled chicken for a filling lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: I love using a mix of baby spinach and romaine for great texture. You can substitute with any greens you like, such as arugula or kale, depending on your taste and what’s available.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are a must! If they’re out of season, you can use frozen berries, but make sure to thaw and dry them properly before use.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor. You can switch to blackberries or raspberries if you prefer, or just stick to strawberries for a simpler version.
Candied Pecans: Candied nuts add sweetness and crunch, but you can use regular pecans or walnuts instead for a less sweet option. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds for some crunch.
Cheese: Feta gives a nice tang, but goat cheese works well too. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Poppyseed Dressing?
The poppyseed dressing is a key part of this salad and very easy to make. It brings all the flavors together beautifully. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine mayonnaise, honey, vinegar, poppy seeds, and olive oil in a small bowl.
- Whisk until smooth. This helps to make it creamy and well-mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the sweetness if needed by adding a bit more honey.
- Keep it simple; if you prefer a lighter option, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
Making the dressing fresh gives your salad a lovely homemade touch!
Easy Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as baby spinach, romaine, and spring mix)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/3 cup candied pecans or pecan halves
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
For the Poppyseed Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy option for a fresh meal that’s perfect for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Greens:
Start by rinsing your mixed salad greens under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner. Place the clean greens in a large salad bowl. This will be the base of your delicious salad!
2. Add the Fresh Fruits and Nuts:
Next, add the sliced strawberries and blueberries to the greens. If you’re using red onion and candied pecans, toss those in too. Gently mix everything together so that the fruits are evenly distributed among the greens.
3. Make the Poppyseed Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and olive oil until smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the sweetness with a little more honey if desired!
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Drizzle the freshly made poppyseed dressing over the salad. Toss everything gently, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. It’s all about getting those flavors to mingle!
5. Top with Cheese (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top of the salad just before serving. This adds a nice tang and richness that pairs beautifully with the sweet fruits.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your vibrant and tasty strawberry poppyseed salad immediately! It’s perfect on its own or as a side with grilled chicken or fish.
This recipe is simple, quick to assemble, and perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
FAQ for Easy Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad
Can I Use Frozen Fruit in This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries and blueberries if fresh ones are unavailable! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain excess moisture before adding them to the salad to avoid sogginess.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it. The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Dressing?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. This will still give you a creamy texture while reducing calories.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad components in advance, like washing and chopping the greens and fruits. However, it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh!
