Watercress Strawberry Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing

Introduction

History

Watercress has been used in culinary dishes for centuries, prized for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. The addition of strawberries to this salad adds a touch of sweetness and a burst of color, making it a popular choice for spring and summer meals.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wash the watercress thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

- Slice the strawberries thinly to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

- Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Toss the salad gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

- Serve the salad immediately after tossing to prevent the greens from wilting.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute arugula or spinach for the watercress.

- Use honey or agave nectar instead of sugar in the dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- Wash and dry the greens and strawberries ahead of time, but wait to assemble the salad until just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish with additional sliced strawberries or a sprinkle of poppy seeds for added visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp.

- Serve with a glass of crisp white wine or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Do not reheat the salad, as the greens will wilt and the strawberries will become mushy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

120

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 80% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This salad is low in calories and fat, but high in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Watercress Strawberry Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a combination of fresh greens, sweet strawberries, and tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Watercress Strawberry Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her quaint little cottage on the outskirts of town. Margaret was known for her delicious and innovative recipes, and I always looked forward to our cooking adventures together.

As I entered her kitchen that day, I was greeted by the intoxicating aroma of fresh strawberries and the subtle hint of poppy seeds. Margaret was bustling around the kitchen, chopping and mixing with a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today, my dear," she exclaimed, as she handed me a bowl of vibrant watercress and juicy strawberries.

I watched in awe as Margaret effortlessly whipped up a homemade poppy seed dressing, combining ingredients like honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. The dressing was a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and I couldn't wait to taste it drizzled over the crisp watercress and ripe strawberries.

As we sat down to enjoy our salad, Margaret shared the story of how she discovered this recipe. She had come across it in an old cookbook that once belonged to her grandmother, who was known for her culinary prowess. The recipe had been passed down through generations, with each cook putting their own spin on it.

Margaret had added her own twist by incorporating fresh watercress and strawberries, giving the salad a delightful mix of flavors and textures. I savored each bite, savoring the crunch of the watercress, the sweetness of the strawberries, and the zing of the poppy seed dressing.

From that moment on, Watercress Strawberry Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing became a staple in my own recipe book. I loved the simplicity of the ingredients and the complexity of the flavors, and I found myself making it time and time again for family gatherings and dinner parties.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, each time adding a personal touch of my own. Whether it's a sprinkle of toasted almonds or a handful of crumbled feta cheese, there are endless ways to make this salad your own.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, I am reminded of the joy that cooking brings me. It's not just about following a recipe, but about creating something unique and delicious to share with the ones you love.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, don't be afraid to experiment and try something new. Who knows, you may just stumble upon a recipe as delightful as Watercress Strawberry Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing. Happy cooking!

Categories

| American Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Dry Mustard Recipes | Honey Recipes | Leafy And Salad Vegetable Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Poppy Seed Recipes | Red Onion Recipes | Salad Recipes | Strawberry Recipes | Watercress Recipes |

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