Aunt Kellie S Spinach Poppy Seed Salad Recipe

This vibrant and flavorful spinach poppy seed salad is perfect for any occasion! From showers and BBQs to everyday lunches and dinners, this crowd-pleasing recipe is a must-try. The creamy poppy seed dressing is made from scratch and is incredibly easy to customize – feel free to halve the dressing recipe if needed. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant salad!

Prep Time 40 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 228.8 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Aunt Kellie S Spinach Poppy Seed Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Aunt Kellie S Spinach Poppy Seed Salad

  • 10 ounces fresh spinach
  • Lettuce
  • Swiss Cheese
  • 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • Button Mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Dry Mustard
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • Vegetable Oil
  • Poppy Seed

How to Make Aunt Kellie S Spinach Poppy Seed Salad

  1. Combine 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  2. Add 3-4 ounces of sliced mushrooms and 1/2 of a medium-sized, finely chopped onion to the dressing. Gently stir to combine and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. In a large bowl, combine 10 ounces fresh spinach, 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional), 1/2 cup sunflower seeds (optional), and 1/4 cup chopped red onion. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Gradually pour the marinated dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat evenly. Add more dressing as needed to your preference.
  5. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

12 g

Sugar

41g

Fat

22g

Carbs

4g