Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad with Mustard Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Dairy Free - Gluten Free - Vegan - Vegetarian

Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones. This Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad proves just that—fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish that feels equally at home on a weeknight dinner table or at a holiday gathering. Paired with a sweet-tangy mustard poppy seed vinaigrette, it’s the perfect balance of crunch, freshness, and just the right amount of indulgence.

And the best part? Every ingredient works double-duty—delicious and supportive for your body. This is what I love most about wellness cooking: you don’t have to choose between flavor and function. You can have both.

Why This Salad Supports Your Wellness

✨ Spinach = A Micronutrient Powerhouse
Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and magnesium. It’s also high in fiber, which helps support digestion and satiety while giving your gut microbiome more of the diversity it loves.

✨ Strawberries = Antioxidant Boost
Bright, sweet strawberries aren’t just pretty—they’re rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune health and skin vitality. Their natural sweetness also balances out the savory crunch of the pecans and tangy dressing.

✨ Pecans = Healthy Fats + Plant Protein
Toasting pecans brings out their buttery flavor, but it also adds healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein. Together, these help support balanced energy and keep meals more satisfying.

✨ Poppy Seeds + Dijon = Digestive Support + Flavor
Poppy seeds may be tiny, but they add fiber and minerals. Dijon mustard gives the dressing a savory kick and contains compounds that can support digestion.

✨ Olive Oil = Heart-Healthy Goodness
The base of the vinaigrette is olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It’s a nourishing fat that supports hormone health and adds that silky finish to the dressing.

Recipe: Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad with Mustard Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Serves 4

Ingredients

For the salad:

• ¼ cup (30g) pecans

• 6 cups (180g) baby spinach

• 1 ½ cups (250g) strawberries, halved

For the dressing:

• ¼ cup (60ml) rice vinegar

• 2 tbsp. coconut sugar

• 2 tsp. poppy seeds

• ½ tsp. dijon mustard

• Salt & pepper

• ¾ cup (180ml) olive oil

Instructions

1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 5 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly, then chop.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, coconut sugar, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until well combined.

3. In a large bowl, toss spinach, strawberries, and pecans. Drizzle with half the vinaigrette and toss to coat. Add more dressing to taste. Serve immediately.

How to Make It Your Own

• Add a protein boost: Top with grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas to make it a full meal.

• Switch the greens: Try arugula for a peppery kick or mixed greens for variety.

• Seasonal swaps: Blueberries, blackberries, or even roasted pears work beautifully in fall and winter.

• Batch the dressing: Double the vinaigrette recipe and keep it in the fridge for up to a week—it pairs well with just about any salad or roasted veggie dish.

The Bigger Picture: Recipes That Make Wellness Simple

This salad is a perfect example of the recipes you’ll find inside the Wellness Warriess Recipe Subscription—meals that are quick to prepare, nutrient-rich, and family-friendly, without ever feeling bland or boring.

Each month, you’ll receive 30 fresh recipes (plant-based and omnivore options included), along with grocery lists and meal planning support. It’s designed to take the stress out of healthy eating so you can enjoy food that makes you feel good—without hours in the kitchen.

✨ Final Thoughts from Wellness Warriess

Wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. When you combine fresh, seasonal ingredients with simple preparations, you create meals that feel joyful and supportive at the same time. This Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making on repeat—not just because it tastes amazing, but because it makes your body feel cared for too.

💛 Want more recipes like this? Join the Wellness Warriess Recipe Club and fill your table with meals that nourish both body and soul.

Disclaimer: Educational content only. This is not medical advice or a substitute for individualized care.