Spinach, Asparagus, Tomato, Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
User Reviews
5
Spinach, Asparagus, Tomato, Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Description
The salad starts by blanching asparagus pieces in boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes until just tender but still crisp, then quickly cooling them in ice water to maintain color and texture. Fresh baby spinach forms the base, complemented by halved grape tomatoes. Toasted pecans or almonds add a nutty crunch. A homemade balsamic vinaigrette dresses the salad, bringing acidity and sweetness to complement the creamy feta cheese sprinkled on top. Tossing gently ensures the ingredients mix without bruising the greens or disrupting the feta.
The salad works well as a light side dish or a refreshing component to a larger meal. The combination of textures and flavors, from crisp asparagus and nuts to soft cheese and juicy tomatoes, creates a balanced and enjoyable salad experience. The vinaigrette can be adjusted in amount to taste, and nuts can be substituted based on preference.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 ½ cups spinach fresh, baby
- 1 lb asparagus tough ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, fresh
- 1 pint grape tomatoes cut in half
- ½ cup pecan toasted (I heat them in the microwave believe it or not. 1-2 minutes on a paper towel and they are nice and toasty, chopped or sliced almonds
- ¼ cup feta cheese crumbled (more if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare this homemade balsamic vinaigrette and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Trim the tough ends off of the asparagus and cut into 2 inch pieces.
- Add asparagus to the boiling water and boil for approx. 4 - 5 minutes, until just tender and still crisp,
- While the asparagus is cooking, fill a medium sized bowl with ice and cold water.
- Pour the asparagus into a strainer to drain and then immediately transfer it to the ice water for about 10 seconds. Then drain asparagus again.
- Place the baby spinach in a medium sized bowl. Add the asparagus, tomatoes and pecans or almonds.
- Drizzle desired amount of vinaigrette over top and toss lightly.Sprinkle with feta cheese. Toss gently again to incorporate.
- ENJOY!!
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 110 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 110kcal | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 5mg | 2% |
| Sodium | 81mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 418mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 1960IU | 39% |
| Vitamin C | 17.2mg | 19% |
| Calcium | 71mg | 7% |
| Iron | 2.3mg | 13% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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