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panera strawberry poppyseed salad

Panera Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

A refreshing homemade version of the popular Panera salad featuring sweet strawberries, nutty poppy seeds, and a light honey-lemon dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Fruit Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 125

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach or spring mix)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
  • 1/2 cup blueberries optional
  • 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments optional
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans roughly chopped, optional
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled, optional
  • 1/4 cup diced grilled chicken breast optional
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 pinch salt

Equipment

  • Large salad bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Salad tongs

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until well combined to create a light, sweet dressing.
  2. Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl, fluffing them gently for volume and even dressing distribution.
  3. Drizzle about three-quarters of the dressing over the greens and toss gently until all leaves are lightly coated. Reserve the remaining dressing.
  4. Add the sliced strawberries to the dressed greens, folding them in carefully to avoid crushing the fruit.
  5. Sprinkle the poppy seeds evenly over the salad, ensuring they distribute throughout.
  6. If using optional ingredients (blueberries, mandarin segments, pecans, feta, or chicken), gently fold them in now.
  7. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the completed salad, focusing on any dry areas.
  8. Serve immediately on chilled plates for the freshest taste and crispest texture.

Notes

  • For meal prep, store components separately and combine just before serving.
  • Toast poppy seeds in a dry pan for enhanced flavor.
  • Allow strawberries to reach room temperature for maximum sweetness.