Spinach/Strawberry Salad

DIRECTIONS

• SALAD: Break off root ends and tough stems (if any) and discard.
• Place spinach in a large bowl, add ice and cover with water; set aside to chill.
• SUGARED ALMONDS: In a small saucepan, combine almonds, sugar and water.
• 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).
• Spread almonds on a large plate; let cool and then break into small pieces.
• (Make ahead, as nuts can be stored in an air-tight container for about 3 days).
• DRESSING: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, poppy seeds and chives.
• Drizzle in olive oil and whisk until blended.
• Now whisk in Dijon mustard until well blended.
• Whisk in salt and pepper to taste.
• Remove spinach leaves from water, pat dry on paper towelling and break into pieces.
• Add to a large mixing bowl.
• Add sliced strawberries and toss lightly to mix.
• Add dressing and toss gently until spinach and berries are lightly coated.
• Add almonds, toss lightly and serve.
• TIP: Packaged ready-to-use baby spinach can be found in the produce section of most supermarkets.
• There are 8 cups of baby spinach in (one- 6 ounce) package.
• 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.