This creamy strawberry poppy seed dressing is a sweet, tangy, and velvety smooth addition to any salad. Made with fresh strawberries, a hint of honey, and a touch of tangy vinegar, it gets its luscious creaminess from mayonnaise, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Light yet indulgent, this homemade dressing pairs wonderfully with mixed greens, fresh berries, and nuts for a refreshing and vibrant salad.
There’s just something about springtime in the South that makes me crave fresh, vibrant flavors, and this creamy strawberry poppy seed dressing has quickly become my new favorite.
I’ve been making it on repeat, and I can already see it becoming a staple for ladies’ luncheons, bridal showers, and lazy porch lunches with a tall glass of sweet tea. It’s light, refreshing, and just the thing to welcome in the warmer days ahead. Hope y’all love it as much as I do!
Why You’ll Love This Dressing
- Rich & Creamy – Made with all mayonnaise for a smooth, velvety texture.
- Sweet & Tangy – Fresh strawberries and honey create the perfect balance.
- Classic Southern Flavor – Inspired by traditional creamy dressings, perfect for any Southern table.
- Versatile & Refreshing – Pairs beautifully with mixed greens, fresh fruit, pecans, or even grilled chicken.
- Homemade & Easy – Simple ingredients come together in minutes for a dressing that tastes better than store-bought.
- Absolutely Beautiful – A gorgeous, natural pink color that makes any salad feel extra special.
- Optional Light Version – For a tangier, lighter twist, swap some mayo for Greek yogurt.

What you’ll need to make Creamy Strawberry Poppyseed Dressing (Be sure to see the full printable recipe below this post.)
Mayonnaise
Fresh strawberries
Honey or sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Fresh lemon juice
Poppy seeds
Sea Salt
Milk if needed for consistency

How to make Creamy Strawberry Poppyseed Dressing:
- Blend the base – In a blender or food processor, blend strawberries, mayonnaise, yogurt (if using), honey (or sugar), vinegar, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the poppy seeds – Once blended, stir in the poppy seeds by hand.
- Adjust consistency – If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Chill – Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Keep It Fresh!
Store your creamy strawberry poppy seed dressing in a mason jar or airtight container in the fridge.
Lasts 4–5 days (but best enjoyed in the first 3!).
Give it a good shake before serving—natural separation is normal.
Made with fresh strawberries, so don’t leave it out long!
Variations
For a lighter dressing, swap yogurt for mayonnaise
Honey vs. Sugar – Honey gives a natural, floral sweetness, while sugar makes it a little cleaner and more neutral. Either works!
Substitute raspberries or blueberries or strawberries for something different.
Serving Ideas
Drizzle over a spring mix salad with strawberries, candied pecans, and goat cheese for a Southern-style salad. Add grilled chicken for a complete meal! This dressing is delicious over chicken.
Use this dressing for a fruit dip!
Mix this dressing in chicken salad! Yum!
Thank you for stopping by.
Enjoy!
Aletia
Other recipes that you will love!
Strawberry Pecan Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
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Creamy Strawberry Poppyseed Dressing
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 1/2 cups
Category: Salad dressing
Description
This creamy strawberry poppy seed dressing is a sweet, tangy, and velvety smooth addition to any salad. Made with fresh strawberries, a hint of honey, and a touch of tangy vinegar, it gets its luscious creaminess from mayonnaise, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Light yet indulgent, this homemade dressing pairs wonderfully with mixed greens, fresh berries, and nuts for a refreshing and vibrant salad.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup mayonnaise (Heavy duty mayonnaise such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s for that Southern touch)
- 6 strawberries, coarsely chopped
- 3 1/2 tablespoons honey (or 3 tablespoons sugar, if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for tang)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (to brighten the flavor)
- 1½ teaspoons poppy seeds
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk if needed for a thinner dressing.
Instructions
- Blend the base – In a blender or food processor, blend strawberries, mayonnaise, yogurt (if using), honey (or sugar), vinegar, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the poppy seeds – Once blended, stir in the poppy seeds by hand.
- Adjust consistency – If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Chill – Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
Keep It Fresh!
Store your creamy strawberry poppy seed dressing in a mason jar or airtight container in the fridge.
Lasts 4–5 days (but best enjoyed in the first 3!).
Give it a good shake before serving—natural separation is normal.
Made with fresh strawberries, so don’t leave it out long!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 Tablespoons
- Calories: 177
- Sugar: 3.6g
- Sodium: 164 mg
- Fat: 17.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 4.2 g
- Protein: 05 g
- Cholesterol: 11.5 mg