Why Make This Recipe
Fresh Spinach Salad with Simple Vinaigrette is a quick and healthy dish. It combines the goodness of spinach with fresh veggies and a tasty dressing. This salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for any meal or as a side dish. It’s also easy to make, making it ideal for busy days.
How to Make Fresh Spinach Salad with Simple Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted optional)
- 1/2 apple, thinly sliced
Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Place baby spinach in a large bowl.
- Add sliced onion, cherry tomatoes, apple, feta, and almonds.
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve Fresh Spinach Salad with Simple Vinaigrette
You can serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or any main course. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a delightful addition to your meal.
How to Store Fresh Spinach Salad with Simple Vinaigrette
If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it is best to store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh. Consume the salad within a day or two for the best taste.
Tips to Make Fresh Spinach Salad with Simple Vinaigrette
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Toast the almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Feel free to add other veggies or nuts that you enjoy.
- Adjust the vinaigrette to suit your taste—add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess.
Variation
You can change up this salad by swapping the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or arugula. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or use different fruits like pears or berries for added variety.
FAQs
Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer.
Fresh Spinach Salad with Simple Vinaigrette
A quick and healthy spinach salad with a simple vinaigrette dressing, perfect as a side dish or light meal.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted optional)
- 1/2 apple, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place baby spinach in a large bowl.
- Add sliced onion, cherry tomatoes, apple, feta, and almonds.
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Store the salad and dressing separately if you have leftovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
