Strawberry Pecan Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

This is definitely salad weather. It almost seems as if we've skipped spring altogether, and gone straight to summer! While I know that there are more chilly spring-like days ahead, the hot weather we've been having is perfect for salads. Salads like this one.

I begged this recipe after the salad was served at a teacher appreciation luncheon many years ago. This salad made me feel very appreciated. With the cool strawberries, tart mandarin oranges and crunchy pecans it was a perfect addition to a light lunch. Try it yourself this strawberry season!

Strawberry Pecan Salad with Poppy Seed Vinaigrette 

1 head red leaf lettuce (or your favorite mixed greens) washed and torn into pieces

1/2 lb. fresh sliced strawberries

1 can mandarin oranges (or blueberries or any other fruit you prefer)

1/2 cup toasted pecans

Toss together and serve with Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

1/2 cup sugar

1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. salt

1/2 cup olive oil

2 Tbsp. poppy seeds

Directions:

In a small saucepan, warm vinegar and dissolve sugar in it. 

Let cool to room temperature.

Add the rest of the ingredients and shake together until thoroughly mixed.

Serve with Strawberry Pecan Salad