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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Poppyseed Dressing

This strawberry spinach salad with balsamic poppyseed dressing is one of those recipes that looks like you spent a lot of time on it but comes together in just minutes. Sweet fresh strawberries, tender baby spinach, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans are tossed in a homemade balsamic poppyseed dressing that is tangy, slightly sweet, and so much better than anything from a bottle.

It is a fresh berry salad that is beautiful enough to serve at a dinner party but easy enough to throw together on a Tuesday night. That combination is exactly why I love it so much.

strawberry spinach salad with balsamic poppyseed dressing in a white stoneware bowl next to wood salad spoons

This easy strawberry spinach salad is naturally gluten free, endlessly customizable, and works for just about every occasion you can think of. It is the perfect spring salad recipe to bring to an Easter gathering or a potluck, a gorgeous summer side dish for cookouts and backyard dinners, and a light and healthy salad recipe that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

The homemade poppyseed dressing takes just a few minutes to whisk together and can be made ahead of time, which makes this a great make ahead salad when you need one less thing to worry about the day of an event.

Whether you are feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick fresh salad recipe to brighten up a weeknight meal this spinach strawberry salad is going to be your new go to all spring and summer long.

If you are looking for more delicious salad recipes try my Chopped Wedge Layer Salad, my Gluten Free BLT Pasta Salad, my Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Salad or my Seven Layer Salad.

You can find all my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

strawberry spinach salad with balsamic poppyseed dressing in a white stoneware bowl next to wood salad spoons
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Ingredients

Instructions

Add the chopped raw pecans to a small saute pan over medium heat. Cook stirring occasionally 5-7 minutes until they're toasted. Watch them carefully because they will burn quickly once they are toasted. Set aside to cool.

In a small mixing bowl add the vinegar, oil, honey, mustard, poppyseeds, salt and pepper. Whisk together until combined. Set aside.

In a large serving bowl add the spinach, strawberries, finely sliced red onion, feta and toasted pecans.

Pour the dressing over top and toss the salad to coat with the dressing. Serve immediately after adding dressing.

Supplies

More Recipes You Might Enjoy

I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Poppyseed Dressing

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Elaine VanVleck
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

This strawberry spinach salad with balsamic poppyseed dressing is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy salad recipe that is perfect for spring and summer. Sweet fresh strawberries, tender baby spinach, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans are tossed in a tangy homemade balsamic poppyseed dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It is naturally gluten free, comes together in just minutes, and is the perfect make ahead salad for Easter, potlucks, cookouts, and everything in between!

Ingredients

Scale

Instructions

Add the chopped raw pecans to a small saute pan over medium heat. Cook stirring occasionally 5-7 minutes until they're toasted. Watch them carefully because they will burn quickly once they are toasted. Set aside to cool.

In a small mixing bowl add the vinegar, oil, honey, mustard, poppyseeds, salt and pepper. Whisk together until combined. Set aside.

In a large serving bowl add the spinach, strawberries, finely sliced red onion, feta and toasted pecans.

Pour the dressing over top and toss the salad to coat with the dressing. Serve immediately after adding dressing.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: Chopped
  • Cuisine: American

Top Tip

You make the toasted pecans, dressing ingredients and put the salad in the serving bowl ahead of time. Wait until just before you serve the salad to add the dressing and toss the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this strawberry spinach salad be made ahead of time?

Yes, with a little planning this salad works beautifully as a make ahead recipe. Store the spinach, strawberries, feta, and pecans separately in the refrigerator and keep the balsamic poppyseed dressing in a sealed jar. When you are ready to serve toss everything together right before serving so the spinach stays crisp and the strawberries stay fresh. The dressing can be made up to three days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

How long does the balsamic poppyseed dressing last?

The homemade balsamic poppyseed dressing will last up to one week stored in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good shake or stir before using as it will separate as it sits. Having a jar of this dressing in the fridge makes it easy to throw together this salad any night of the week.

What can I add to this strawberry spinach salad to make it a full meal?

This salad is very easy to turn into a complete meal by adding a protein. Grilled chicken is my favorite option and pairs beautifully with the balsamic poppyseed dressing. Shrimp, steak slices, or hard boiled eggs are also great additions. If you want to keep it vegetarian adding chickpeas or cannellini beans gives the salad extra substance and keeps it satisfying.

Is this strawberry spinach salad gluten free?

Yes! All of the ingredients in this strawberry spinach salad are naturally gluten free making it a great option for anyone eating gluten free.

Can I substitute the feta cheese or pecans in this recipe?

Absolutely. If you are not a fan of feta you can substitute goat cheese for a creamier, tangier flavor or leave the cheese out entirely for a dairy free version. For the pecans you can use sliced almonds, walnuts, or candied nuts depending on your preference. Sunflower seeds are also a great nut free option that adds a nice crunch to the salad.

If you made this strawberry spinach salad I would love to hear what you thought! Please leave a star rating and a comment below. This is one of my favorite spring and summer salads and I hope it becomes one of yours too!

Honey Dijon Carrot Salad

This Honey Dijon Carrot Salad is a fresh, simple side dish inspired by classic French carrot salad. The crisp shredded carrots are tossed in a light honey dijon dressing that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tangy flavor.

With fresh herbs and a bright vinaigrette, this easy carrot salad recipe comes together quickly and makes a refreshing addition to any meal.

a cream serving bowl of honey dijon carrot salad with a parsley garnish next to a tan and white striped kitchen towel

This French shredded carrot salad is the kind of recipe that feels both simple and elegant. It's a quick salad recipe that works beautifully as a healthy side dish for lunch or dinner and is naturally gluten free.

If you're looking for the best carrot salad ever, this honey dijon carrot salad is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy carrots.

If you are looking for more simple salad recipes try my Creamy Cucumber Salad, my Cucumber Salad with Vinegar Dressing, my Sugar Free Broccoli Salad or my Easy Pea Salad.

You can find all of my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

a cream serving bowl of honey dijon carrot salad with a parsley garnish next to a tan and white striped kitchen towel
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Ingredients

Instructions

Peel and then grate the carrots using a box grater or your food processor.

Finely chop the green onions and parsley.

Add the carrots, green onions and parsley to a large mixing bowl.

In a small bowl with a whisk or in a jar with your immersion blender add the dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper. Whisk or blend together.

Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and stir to coat the salad.

Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator in an air tight container until you're ready to serve it.

Supplies

More Recipes You Might Enjoy

I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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Honey Dijon Carrot Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Elaine VanVleck
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

This Honey Dijon Carrot Salad is a fresh, simple side dish inspired by classic French carrot salad. The crisp shredded carrots are tossed in a light honey dijon dressing that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tangy flavor. 

Ingredients

Scale

Instructions

Peel and then grate the carrots using a box grater or your food processor.

Finely chop the green onions and parsley.

Add the carrots, green onions and parsley to a large mixing bowl.

In a small bowl with a whisk or in a jar with your immersion blender add the dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper. Whisk or blend together.

Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and stir to coat the salad.

Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator in an air tight container until you're ready to serve it.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish, Salads
  • Method: Chopped
  • Cuisine: Gluten Free

Top Tip

This salad is the easiest to make with a food processor. I like to send everything through the shredder blade, pour into a bowl and stir the sauce in. Makes it so quick to have this salad on the table for dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make honey dijon carrot salad ahead of time?

Yes, this carrot salad can be made ahead of time and actually tastes even better after it sits for a bit. The honey dijon dressing soaks into the shredded carrots and helps the flavors develop. For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving.

What is the best way to shred carrots for carrot salad?

The easiest way to make this French carrot salad is to use a food processor to create fresh grated carrots. Freshly shredded carrots have the best texture and absorb the honey dijon dressing better than preshredded carrots. This helps the salad stay crisp and flavorful.

How long does carrot salad last in the refrigerator?

This honey dijon carrot salad will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days. The flavors continue to blend as it sits, making it a great make ahead salad recipe. If the salad releases a little liquid, simply stir it before serving.

Zesty Three Bean Salad with Tuna

This Zesty Three Bean Salad with Tuna is a fresh, flavor packed twist on a classic three bean salad. Made with hearty beans and protein rich tuna, this high protein and high fiber salad is both satisfying and incredibly easy to throw together.

If you're looking for a healthy tuna bean salad that's bright, zesty, and full of texture, this no cook dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

zesty three bean salad with tuna in a cream serving bowl next to a tan and white striped kitchen towel

Perfect for weekly lunch meal prep, this tuna and bean salad is a balanced option that keeps you full and energized. It's a simple easy weekday meal that works as a side dish or main course, and it fits beautifully into a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you call it a bean tuna salad, mixed bean salad with tuna, or your new favorite 3 bean salad, this homemade recipe is one you'll come back to again and again.

If you're looking for more bean recipes try my Chopped Wedge Layer Salad, my Gluten Free Pesto Pasta Salad, my Instant Pot Garlic Ginger Green Beans or my Black Beans and Corn Salad.

You can find all of my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

a cream serving bowl of zesty three bean salad with tuna next to a tan and white striped kitchen towel
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Ingredients

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl add the drained kidney beans, drained garbanzo beans, drained green beans, drained tuna, onion, parsley, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, mustard, salt and pepper.

Stir to combine. Refrigerate in an air tight container for at least 2 hours before serving.

Supplies

More Recipes You Might Enjoy

I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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Zesty Three Bean Salad with Tuna

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Elaine VanVleck
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

This Zesty Three Bean Salad with Tuna is a fresh, flavor packed twist on a classic three bean salad. Made with hearty beans and protein rich tuna, this high protein and high fiber salad is both satisfying and incredibly easy to throw together. 

Ingredients

Scale

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl add the drained kidney beans, drained garbanzo beans, drained green beans, drained tuna, onion, parsley, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, mustard, salt and pepper.

Stir to combine. Refrigerate in an air tight container for at least 2 hours before serving.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish, Salads
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Gluten Free

Top Tip

I like this salad with one can of tuna, but my husband prefers it with two cans of tuna and takes that as his lunch occasionally. Either way, the salad is packed with protein and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make three bean salad with tuna ahead of time?

Yes! This zesty three bean salad with tuna is perfect for lunch meal prep. Because it's a no cooking recipe, the flavors actually improve after a few hours in the fridge, making it an ideal high protein salad to prepare in advance.

How long does tuna bean salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this bean and tuna salad recipe will stay fresh for 4-5 days. It's a convenient easy lunch option that holds up well, making it perfect for busy weeks and quick grab and go meals.

Gluten Free Frog Eye Salad

This Gluten Free Frog Eye Salad is an easy fruit salad that's been loved for generations, and for good reason. Inspired by an old fashioned, vintage recipe, this classic dessert salad is creamy, sweet, and incredibly delicious! It's the best dessert salad for gatherings and holidays.

It's a true Frog Eye Salad Recipe Original style treat that feels nostalgic while still being simple to make.

a big cream bowl of gluten free frog eye salad sitting next to two smaller white bowls of the dessert salad

Perfect as a potluck dessert, holiday salad, or easy no bake dessert, this gluten free version comes together quickly and always disappears fast. The creamy texture and fluffy finish make it a standout fluff dessert and sweet pasta salad.

It can double as an easy side dish recipe. Whether you're serving it for a celebration or a casual get together, this easy Frog Eye Salad is a family favorite and a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

If you are looking for more recipes like this one you might also like my Cranberry Fluff Salad, my Seven Layer Salad, my Easy Pea Salad or my Gluten Free Million Dollar Cake.

You can find all of my desserts here: Gluten Free Dessert Recipes

a small white bowl of gluten free frog eye salad sitting on a cream colored scallop edge plate next to a large cream colored bowl of the dessert salad
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Ingredients

Instructions

In a large bowl add the drained mandarin oranges and drained pineapple. *Be sure to save the pineapple juice! You will need it for the custard.

If you are going to make your own whipped cream add 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 4 tablespoons of sifted powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl of your stand mixer. Using the whisk attachment whisk the mixture until stiff peaks form. I do this step while I'm making the sauce.

In a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat combine the pineapple juice, sugar, salt and the cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons of pineapple juice. Adding the cornstarch dry may cause lumps in your custard. Let the mixture heat up and then before it simmers add the beaten eggs very slowly while whisking. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens. This usually takes 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice. The mixture will thicken more as it cools.

In a large pot bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the gluten free stelline pasta and boil while stirring often for 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. Once the pasta is cooled add it to the pineapple and mandarin mixture and stir.

Add either the whipped cream you made or store bought whipped cream to the pineapple and mandarin mixture and fold in. This means using your spoon roll the mixture in from the sides over top of itself moving in circles as you turn the bowl.

Add the cooled custard mixture to the bowl and fold in.

If you want this to truly be the classic recipe you would add one cup of coconut flakes at this point, but I hate the texture and always omit them.

Refrigerate the dessert salad for at least 8 hours.

Before serving stir in the miniature marshmallows.

Supplies

More Recipes You Might Enjoy

I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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Gluten Free Frog Eye Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Elaine VanVleck
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

This Gluten Free Frog Eye Salad is an easy fruit salad that's been loved for generations, and for good reason. Inspired by an old fashioned, vintage recipe, this classic dessert salad is creamy, sweet, and incredibly delicious! It's the best dessert salad for gatherings and holidays. 

Ingredients

Units Scale

Homemade Whipped Cream:

Instructions

In a large bowl add the drained mandarin oranges and drained pineapple. *Be sure to save the pineapple juice! You will need it for the custard.

If you are going to make your own whipped cream add 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 4 tablespoons of sifted powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl of your stand mixer. Using the whisk attachment whisk the mixture until stiff peaks form. I do this step while I'm making the sauce.

In a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat combine the pineapple juice, sugar, salt and the cornstarch mixed with 4 tablespoons of pineapple juice. Adding the cornstarch dry may cause lumps in your custard. Let the mixture heat up and then before it simmers add the beaten eggs very slowly while whisking. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens. This usually takes 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice. The mixture will thicken more as it cools.

In a large pot bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the gluten free stelline pasta and boil while stirring often for 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. Once the pasta is cooled add it to the pineapple and mandarin mixture and stir.

Add either the whipped cream you made or store bought whipped cream to the pineapple and mandarin mixture and fold in. This means using your spoon roll the mixture in from the sides over top of itself moving in circles as you turn the bowl.

Add the cooled custard mixture to the bowl and fold in.

If you want this to truly be the classic recipe you would add one cup of coconut flakes at this point, but I hate the texture and always omit them.

Refrigerate the dessert salad for at least 8 hours.

Before serving stir in the miniature marshmallows.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Salad, Holidays
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: Christmas, Gluten Free

Top Tip

This recipe is best made one day before you want to serve it. For the holidays I always put it on my day before prep list. This gives the salad time to set up and get really flavorful.

It also makes it simple the day of your gathering to get it out and just stir in marshmallows before serving it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there actual frog eyes in the salad?

No. It's one of those old salads with a weird name. Since I'm using gluten free stelline pasta (means star shaped in Italian) I wanted to change the name to Star Eyed Salad. Sounds so much more appealing. Because this salad is delicious and deserves a better name.

Is frog eye salad a salad or a dessert?

This dish is versatile and can be served as a sweet side dish at gatherings or holidays. It could also go on the dessert table and be served as a dessert.

How long does frog eye salad last?

The salad will last refrigerated for 4-5 days in an air tight container.

Top 10 Gluten Free Recipes

These are the top ten gluten free recipes on my website. These popular recipes range from dinners, desserts, snacks, and baking. Some of my oldest and most favorite gluten free recipes made this list!

These are the recipes that have gotten the most views on my website this year. Almost all of these recipes have been on my website for almost two years and are recipes that I was making long before I had even dreamed of having a website.

When I first started creating gluten free recipes for myself I would write them down in a notebook to come back to. I had amassed quite a few recipes when I decided to start sharing them. It's not surprising to me that these recipes are loved because they are some of my favorite go-to recipes that I still make really frequently.

Top 10 Gluten Free Recipes

Seven Layer Salad

This classic recipe for seven layer salad has a delicious dressing and is easy to make. This is the best healthy salad with sour cream and mayo in the dressing. This traditional recipe is gluten free and just like the old fashioned seven layer salads I remember growing up.

Get the Recipe

Gluten Free Taco Casserole

This easy recipe for gluten free taco casserole is layered with tortillas and ground beef. After assembling you bake this healthy dinner.

Get the Recipe

Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles

This easy recipe for refrigerator bread and butter pickles makes the best crunchy pickle slices. This recipe shows you how to make one small batch by quickly pickling cucumbers. The simple brine has apple cider vinegar, celery seeds and mustard seeds for great flavor.

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Gluten Free Sourdough Sandwich Bread

This gluten free sourdough sandwich bread is soft, flavorful, and perfect for everyday use, making it one of the best gluten free bread recipes you can bake at home. Using a gluten free sourdough starter, this homemade gluten free sourdough bread recipe creates a loaf that's ideal for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh from the oven.

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Easy Pea Salad

This recipe for easy pea salad is made with bacon and green peas. This cold and creamy old fashioned salad is perfect for Spring! My classic recipe is made with sour cream and vinegar dressing.

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Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole

This easy ground beef nacho casserole recipe is perfect for weeknight meals. The recipe uses ground beef, tortilla chips and cheese to create a dinner the whole family will love. This nacho bake is ready to serve in under 30 minutes!

Get The Recipe

Gluten Free Cheesy Pinto Beans

This easy recipe for gluten free cheesy pinto beans is delicious as a dip with tortilla chips or in your bean burritos. This bean dip recipe is baked with cheesy on top and served hot. It is a Mexican style bean dish full of flavor and spices.

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Dunkin Copycat Brown Sugar Cream Cold Brew

This easy recipe for Dunkin copycat brown sugar cream cold brew tells you home to make this delicious drink step by step at home. Using coarse ground coffee you make a cold brew concentrate, then you add the brown sugar cinnamon syrup and the brown sugar cold foam. This recipe makes the best DIY cold brewed coffee!

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Gluten Free Enchilada Skillet

These easy gluten free skillet enchiladas are made with ground beef and lots of cheese. I prefer to use my cast iron skillet, but any casserole pan will work. This recipe has the best homemade enchilada sauce!

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Gluten Free Cowboy Baked Beans

These easy gluten free cowboy baked beans are made wtih ground beef, bacon and barbecue sauce. This homemade main dish recipe uses four types of beans with hamburger for a hearty meal. This is the best bean casserole for for weeknight meals, gatherings or picnics!

Get The Recipe

I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

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