Easy Spinach Salad
User Reviews
4.5
Easy Spinach Salad
Description
The salad uses 10 ounces of fresh spinach as its base, layered with thinly sliced honeycrisp apples and ripe avocado for creaminess and sweetness. Thin slices of red onion add a mild sharpness, while pecans contribute crunch and nuttiness. Crumbled feta cheese introduces a salty, tangy contrast.
The dressing is prepared by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, which brings a sweet and tangy harmony to the ingredients. The salad can be tossed just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the components.
This salad works well as a light main course or side dish, especially in spring or autumn when apples and fresh spinach are available. The creamy avocado and protein from feta and nuts enhance satisfaction and nutrition.
The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, shaken or whisked before use. The salad itself is flexible and can be adjusted with different nuts or cheeses according to preference.
Ingredients
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- salt dash
- black pepper dash
For the salad:
- 10 ounces spinach fresh
- 2 apple cored and thinly sliced, large, Honeycrisp
- 1 avocado sliced, large
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup pecan can use walnuts or almonds, roughly chopped, candied or not
- 3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled, or goat cheese
Instructions
- To make the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- To assemble the salad, place the spinach, apple slices, avocado, red onion, pecans, and cheese in a large bowl. When ready to serve, drizzle with dressing and toss. Alternatively, you can plate the salads and serve the dressing on the side.
Notes
- The salad ingredients can be varied with different nuts or cheeses according to taste and availability.
- The dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for up to one week; shake or whisk before using.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep spinach and other ingredients crisp.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 223 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 223kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 19g | 6% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Cholesterol | 13mg | 4% |
| Sodium | 251mg | 10% |
| Potassium | 395mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 3444IU | 69% |
| Vitamin C | 15mg | 17% |
| Calcium | 126mg | 13% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
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