Summer Bliss Strawberry Poppyseed Salad
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing Strawberry Poppyseed Salad, inspired by my cherished Panera Café dish. This colorful salad combines crunchy romaine lettuce with juicy strawberries, fresh blueberries, sweet mandarin oranges, and tropical pineapple chunks, all enhanced by the nutty goodness of pecans. Enjoy it as a light, healthy meal or pair it with grilled chicken for a protein boost. Perfect for relaxing on the patio with an iced green tea, this salad captures the essence of summertime in every bite. Let this dish become a staple at your summer gatherings!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
romaine lettuce
6 cups (chopped)
strawberries
1 cup (sliced)
blueberries
1 cup (fresh)
mandarin oranges
1 cup
pineapple chunks
1 cup (in juice)
pecans
1/2 cup
grilled chicken breast
to taste (chunked (optional))
light mayonnaise
1/2 cup
skim milk
1/4 cup
Splenda sugar substitute
1/4 cup
white vinegar
1/8 cup
poppy seeds
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced strawberries, fresh blueberries, mandarin oranges, pineapple chunks, and chopped pecans. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the light mayonnaise, skim milk, Splenda, white vinegar, and poppy seeds until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning if desired.
3
Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are coated with the dressing.
4
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your delicious Summer Bliss Strawberry Poppyseed Salad!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Summer Bliss Strawberry Poppyseed Salad?
It is a refreshing salad inspired by Panera, featuring romaine lettuce, berries, mandarin oranges, pineapple, and pecans with a creamy poppyseed dressing.
What are the main ingredients for the poppyseed dressing?
The dressing is made with light mayonnaise, skim milk, Splenda sugar substitute, white vinegar, and poppy seeds.
What kind of lettuce should I use?
The recipe calls for six cups of chopped romaine lettuce for the best crunch.
What fruits are included in this salad?
The salad includes sliced strawberries, fresh blueberries, mandarin oranges, and pineapple chunks.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, you can add chunked grilled chicken breast to taste for an extra protein boost.
Is this a copycat recipe?
Yes, this salad is a lightened-up version inspired by the popular dish served at Panera Cafe.
What kind of nuts are used in the salad?
The recipe uses a half cup of chopped pecans for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
Is there a sugar substitute used in the dressing?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/4 cup of Splenda sugar substitute to keep the dressing light.
What type of vinegar is best for the dressing?
The recipe specifies using white vinegar to achieve the characteristic tang of poppyseed dressing.
How should the strawberries be prepared?
The strawberries should be cleaned and sliced before being added to the salad bowl.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, the recipe suggests using one cup of pineapple chunks in juice.
Is the dressing creamy?
Yes, the combination of light mayonnaise and skim milk creates a creamy texture.
How many ingredients are in the entire recipe?
There are 12 primary ingredients listed, including the optional grilled chicken.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the light mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk.
Should the salad be served immediately?
You can serve it immediately or chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this salad suitable for summer gatherings?
Absolutely, its vibrant fruit flavors and light dressing make it perfect for summer parties and patio dining.
Can I substitute the pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or slivered almonds if you prefer.
What is the best way to serve the salad?
Toss all ingredients with the dressing just before serving to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should always check the labels on your mayonnaise and vinegar to confirm.
Can I use spinach instead of romaine?
Yes, baby spinach is a great alternative that pairs well with the fruits in this recipe.
How should I store leftover dressing?
Any leftover dressing should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How many poppy seeds are required?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of poppy seeds.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes, children usually enjoy the sweetness of the strawberries, oranges, and pineapple.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple chunks are a delicious and healthy substitution for canned chunks.
Is there oil in the dressing?
This specific recipe uses light mayo instead of oil to create a creamy base.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation is quick, involving only chopping, whisking, and tossing, taking about 15 minutes.
Can I add other types of berries?
Yes, raspberries or blackberries would be excellent additions to this fruit-focused salad.
What kind of milk should I use?
The recipe recommends skim milk to keep the calorie count low.
Is this recipe considered a light meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a light meal, making it perfect for lunch or a side dish.
What type of mandarin oranges should I use?
Canned mandarin oranges (drained) are typical for this type of salad for ease and consistent sweetness.