Jan’s Spinach Strawberry Salad Recipe

Extra happiness-inspiring - and delicious - when the ingredients come from your own garden.

Whenever it’s strawberry season, I am reminded of my amazing mother-in-law, Jan.  She had a television cooking show back in the 50’s and 60’s, and needless to say, was a superb cook.  One of her favorite recipes was this Spinach Strawberry Salad.  It’s delicious, especially with homegrown berries and greens. I especially like how the strawberries resemble little hearts when sliced lengthwise - perfect for Valentine’s Day or any meal with loved ones.

Jan’s Spinach Strawberry Salad

Salad ingredients:

1.5 lbs fresh, clean spinach leaves, stemmed and torn

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped, or 1 Tbsp dried

4 tsp toasted sesame seeds (can be toasted on a tray in a 350 oven or in a skillet on the stove over medium high heat.  Either way, watch carefully.  It should only take a couple of minutes.)

 For the dressing:

1/3 cup of vegetable oil

1/3 cup of red wine vinegar

2 Tbsp sugar

½ tsp dry mustard

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

 Directions:

1.       Place torn spinach and sliced strawberries in large salad serving bowl.  Sprinkle evenly with dill and sesame seeds.

2.       Mix dressing ingredients together in a small blender or jar.  Drizzle over salad and toss gently.  Serve immediately. Note, there may be extra dressing.