Panera-Style Strawberry Poppyseed Salad

Inspired by Panera's Strawberry Poppyseed Salad and a classic chicken salad, this clean version uses whole-food, organic ingredients without seed oils or refined sugars for a healthier take on the beloved flavors.

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Ingredients

4 servings

Clean swaps

Every ingredient in this recipe, ready to shop — including our clean upgrade picks.

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organic chicken breast, cooked and shredded
organic chicken breast, cooked and shredded Shop →
fresh blueberries
fresh blueberries Shop →
chopped pecans
chopped pecans Shop →
crumbled feta cheese
crumbled feta cheese Shop →
chopped parsley
chopped parsley Shop →
olive oil
olive oil Shop →
honey
honey Shop →
pure maple syrup
pure maple syrup Shop →
Juice of 1 lime
Juice of 1 lime Shop →

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What you'll need

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the greens, shredded chicken, sliced strawberries, blueberries, chopped grapes, pecans, crumbled feta, and parsley.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, maple syrup, lime juice, poppyseeds, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQ

How long does this Panera-Style Strawberry Poppyseed Salad keep?

This salad keeps best when refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I use organic dried cranberries instead of grapes?

Certainly! Organic dried cranberries can be used as an alternative for added flavor, but they may alter the moisture content slightly. Adjust additional liquid if needed.

Can I substitute cashews for the poppyseeds to make this salad nutty?

While you can add roasted cashews for extra texture and flavor, it's best to stick with poppyseeds for that authentic poppa-poppan crunch that makes this dish unique.

How should I store this salad if I want to eat it during the week?

Store the salad in an airtight container separated into dressing and greens. Just before serving, toss together with the sliced fruit for best texture and flavor.

Why does the recipe call for honey instead of agave nectar or maple syrup as my sweeteners of choice?

Honey pairs exceptionally well with strawberries in this salad; however feel free to substitute a similar volume of agave nectar or maple syrup if you prefer those options.

What's the biggest mistake people make while making this recipe at home?

The most common mistake is not allowing the dressing to come to room temperature before tossing with the ingredients, which can result in overly soggy leaves.

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