Spinach Mandarin Poppy Seed Salad

8 oz. bag of baby spinach
1/2-1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped
1/2 thinly sliced medium red onion
1 large avocado, cubed
8 oz. mozzarella or Swiss cheese, shredded ( I used Swiss)
1 (12 oz) package bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 (12oz) can Mandarin oranges, drained
Poppy Seed Dressing, to taste

Combine all ingredients except dressing in a large bowl.  When ready to serve, toss with desired amount of salad dressing and serve immediately.  If you anticipate leftovers, just let your eaters dress their own salads because the dressing with make the greens wilt.

Poppy Seed Dressing
1/2 cup white or white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
a few turns of freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
2 Tablespoon sliced green onions
1/2cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon poppy seeds

In blender, combine vinegar, salt, pepper, sugar, and mustard.  While the blender is running, add the green onion.  Continue running the blender and add the oil in a steady stream until it is fully incorporated into the dressing.
Pour the dressing into a serving or storage container and whisk in poppy seeds.  Serve over the salad.

recipe from Our Best Bites cookbook