Spinach/Strawberry Salad

Ingredients

SALAD

• 8 cups fresh baby spinach, about 8 ounces
• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries, about 8 ounces

SUGARED ALMONDS

• 1/2 cup slivered almond
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

DRESSING

• 5 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (12 year old is best)
• 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons liquid honey
• 1 1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 3 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. 1

   SALAD: Break off root ends and tough stems (if any) and discard.

2. 2

   Place spinach in a large bowl, add ice and cover with water; set aside to chill.

3. 3

   SUGARED ALMONDS: In a small saucepan, combine almonds, sugar and water.

4. 4

   Cook over medium-low heat for 5 to 7 minutes or until sugar is almost completely melted and nuts are golden, stirring occasionally- (there will be unmelted sugar on nuts).

5. 5

   Spread almonds on a large plate; let cool and then break into small pieces.

6. 6

   (Make ahead, as nuts can be stored in an air-tight container for about 3 days).

7. 7

   DRESSING: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, poppy seeds and chives.

8. 8

   Drizzle in olive oil and whisk until blended.

9. 9

   Now whisk in Dijon mustard until well blended.

10. 10

    Whisk in salt and pepper to taste.

11. 11

    Remove spinach leaves from water, pat dry on paper towelling and break into pieces.

12. 12

    Add to a large mixing bowl.

13. 13

    Add sliced strawberries and toss lightly to mix.

14. 14

    Add dressing and toss gently until spinach and berries are lightly coated.

15. 15

    Add almonds, toss lightly and serve.

16. 16

    TIP: Packaged ready-to-use baby spinach can be found in the produce section of most supermarkets.

17. 17

    There are 8 cups of baby spinach in (one- 6 ounce) package.

18. 18

    NOTE: Only make enough salad that will be eaten at this one time serving. The salad will get somewhat soggy if kept for another day.