Sweet and Savory Spinach Salad
This Sweet and Savory Spinach Salad is a delightful blend of fresh greens, tangy Craisins, and creamy cheese. Perfect for any meal, this vibrant salad bursts with flavor and texture, thanks to the crunchy almonds and zesty citrus dressing. Ideal as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a picnic companion, it’s both heart-healthy and satisfying. For an added kick of indulgence, bacon bits can be included for an extra layer of flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible salad!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Spinach
8 ounces (washed and torn into bite-sized pieces)
Red Onion
1/4 small (thinly sliced)
Dried Sweetened Cranberries (Craisins)
1/2 cup (none)
Toasted Sliced Almonds
2 tablespoons (optional)
Feta Cheese
1/2 cup (crumbled, optional)
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
1/2 cup (none)
Orange Juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Orange Zest
1 teaspoon (optional)
Bacon Bits
optional (cooked and crumbled, if desired)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing and thoroughly cleaning the fresh spinach. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them into a large serving bowl.
2
Gently add half of the crumbled cheese and the thinly sliced red onion to the spinach. Toss the ingredients lightly to combine.
3
In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinaigrette, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.
4
Drizzle the dressing mixture over the salad, tossing gently to ensure even coating of the spinach and toppings.
5
Sprinkle the remaining crumbled cheese over the top of the salad. Follow with a generous layer of Craisins and sprinkle with toasted almonds if using.
6
For added flavor, you can sprinkle some cooked bacon bits on top. Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary base of this salad?
The primary base of this Sweet and Savory Spinach Salad is 8 ounces of fresh spinach, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
What makes this salad both sweet and savory?
The sweetness comes from dried sweetened cranberries (Craisins) and orange juice, while the savory notes come from red onion, feta cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, the salad is naturally vegetarian if you omit the optional bacon bits.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, which is added in two stages for flavor throughout.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing is a zesty blend of balsamic vinaigrette, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest.
How do I prepare the red onion for this salad?
You should use 1/4 of a small red onion and slice it very thinly before adding it to the spinach.
Are the almonds mandatory?
No, the 2 tablespoons of toasted sliced almonds are listed as optional but recommended for added crunch.
Is orange zest necessary?
The 1 teaspoon of orange zest is optional, but it enhances the citrus profile of the salad.
How should I prepare the spinach?
The fresh spinach should be washed thoroughly and then torn into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
When should I add the dressing?
The dressing should be drizzled over the salad and tossed gently right before adding the final toppings and serving.
Can I add meat to this salad?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding cooked and crumbled bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Yes, it is described as an ideal picnic companion, though it is best served immediately after dressing.
How much balsamic vinaigrette is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
What are Craisins?
Craisins are dried sweetened cranberries that provide a tangy and sweet flavor to the salad.
How much orange juice is used?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice.
What is the first step in making this salad?
The first step is washing the spinach and tearing the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Should the dressing be mixed in a separate bowl?
Yes, you should whisk the vinaigrette, orange juice, and zest together in a separate small mixing bowl before adding it to the salad.
Can I use a different type of onion?
While red onion is specified for its color and mild flavor, you could substitute other onions, though the taste profile may change.
Is this a heart-healthy recipe?
Yes, the description identifies this salad as heart-healthy, featuring fresh greens and fruit.
How many ingredients are in this salad?
There are 9 ingredients listed in total, including optional items like bacon bits and almonds.
When do I add the remaining cheese?
Half of the cheese is tossed with the spinach and onions early on, and the remaining half is sprinkled on top after dressing.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy recipe' and consists of simple mixing and tossing steps.
What is the suggested serving time?
It is recommended to serve the salad immediately for the best possible flavor and texture.
Does the recipe specify a serving size?
The specific serving size is not provided, but the total recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the tags for this recipe?
Tags include salad, spinach, healthy, easy recipe, vegetarian, and summer salad.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
The recipe suggests freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free; however, check your specific brand of balsamic vinaigrette and bacon bits to ensure they are gluten-free.
What is the texture of this salad?
The salad offers a variety of textures, including soft spinach leaves, crunchy almonds, and creamy feta cheese.
What is the calorie count for this dish?
The calorie count and nutritional data are not specified in the current recipe information.