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Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans
5 from 12 votes

Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans

This Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans combines tender baby spinach leaves with sharp red onion slices, creamy crumbled goat cheese, and crunchy pecans. A dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a touch of maple syrup lightly coats the spinach, adding a balanced tang and mild sweetness. The salad's texture contrasts between tender greens and the crisp nuts, making it a thoughtful choice for a fresh side or light meal.

Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 224 kcal
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic fresh, minced
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup real or sugar-free
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Salad:
  • 5 ounces baby spinach leaves
  • ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced; 20 grams
  • ½ cup pecans halved; 60 grams
  • ½ cup goat cheese crumbled; 60 grams

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a small jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
  2. Close the lid tightly and shake the jar until the ingredients emulsify into a smooth, velvety dressing.
  3. Place the spinach leaves in a large bowl. Add the dressing and toss to coat the leaves.
  4. Arrange the coated spinach leaves on a serving platter. Scatter the red onions on top.
  5. Add the pecan halves and goat cheese crumbles, evenly spreading them on the spinach leaves.
  6. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For added flavor, you can toast pecans at 300°F for 15 minutes before adding to the salad.
  • Walnuts can be substituted for pecans, and crumbled feta cheese may replace goat cheese if desired.
  • Serve the salad immediately after dressing to maintain the spinach's crispness and freshness.
  • Consider adding cooked proteins like grilled chicken or baked salmon to make a complete meal with this salad.

Nutrition Information

Serving 0.25recipe Calories 224kcal (11%) Carbohydrates 5g (2%) Protein 5g (10%) Fat 21g (32%) Saturated Fat 4g (20%) Sodium 243mg (10%) Fiber 2g (8%) Sugar 2g (4%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4 servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 224

% Daily Value*

Serving 0.25recipe
Calories 224kcal 11%
Carbohydrates 5g 2%
Protein 5g 10%
Fat 21g 32%
Saturated Fat 4g 20%
Sodium 243mg 10%
Fiber 2g 8%
Sugar 2g 4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.