Vibrant Spinach and Toasted Pumpkin Seed Salad
Delight in the freshness of this Vibrant Spinach and Toasted Pumpkin Seed Salad, a lively blend of tender spinach leaves mixed with juicy cherry tomatoes or sweet cherries, all topped with crunchy toasted pumpkin seeds. The refreshing dressing, made from high-quality extra virgin olive oil and tangy red wine vinegar, enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients while providing a rich source of healthy fats. This salad is perfect as a light meal, an appetizer, or a side dish at your next gathering. Enjoy the nutritional benefits packed in every colorful bite.
N/A
Servings
90
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup (measured)
Red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons (measured)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon (measured)
Baby spinach leaves
5 cups (stemmed, washed, and dried)
Cherries or grape tomatoes
1 cup (halved)
Scallion
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
Alfalfa sprouts
1 cup (loose)
Shelled pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup (toasted if desired)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
2
In a large salad bowl, gently toss the stemmed baby spinach leaves with the dressing until all the leaves are evenly coated.
3
Add the halved cherries or grape tomatoes and finely chopped scallions to the spinach. Toss lightly to combine all the ingredients without bruising the spinach.
4
Divide the salad among individual serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous handful of alfalfa sprouts and a sprinkle of shelled pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
5
Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
6g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this salad recipe?
The recipe is called Vibrant Spinach and Toasted Pumpkin Seed Salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is gluten-free.
How many calories are in a serving of this salad?
Each serving contains approximately 90 calories.
What are the primary leafy greens used?
The primary greens used are baby spinach leaves and alfalfa sprouts.
Can I use tomatoes instead of cherries?
Yes, you can use either one cup of halved cherries or one cup of halved grape tomatoes.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing consists of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard.
How much fat is in this salad?
This salad contains 7g of fat per serving.
How much protein does this salad provide?
This salad provides 3g of protein per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 6g of carbohydrates per serving.
What kind of seeds are used for the topping?
Shelled pumpkin seeds are used for the topping.
How should the pumpkin seeds be prepared?
The pumpkin seeds should be shelled and can be toasted if desired for extra crunch.
What type of vinegar is recommended?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar.
How much olive oil is needed for the dressing?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
How should the spinach be prepared before assembly?
The baby spinach should be stemmed, washed, and dried.
What is the purpose of adding Dijon mustard to the dressing?
Dijon mustard helps create a creamy consistency and adds a tangy flavor to the dressing.
How much spinach is needed for the salad?
You will need 5 cups of baby spinach leaves.
How should the scallions be prepared?
The scallions should be finely chopped.
What is the best way to combine the dressing ingredients?
Whisk the vinegar, oil, salt, pepper, and mustard in a medium bowl until creamy.
When should the alfalfa sprouts be added?
Add a generous handful of alfalfa sprouts as a topping just before serving.
Can this salad be served as a main dish?
Yes, it is suitable as a light meal, an appetizer, or a side dish.
How do I prevent the spinach from bruising?
Toss the spinach and other ingredients lightly to avoid bruising the delicate leaves.
What kind of pepper should I use?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 specific ingredients listed for this salad.
Should this salad be served chilled or immediately?
The recipe suggests serving the salad immediately after assembly.
How much salt is used in the dressing?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt, or you can add it to taste.
Is there any cholesterol in this salad?
The recipe information indicates that cholesterol is not present or not significant.
What are the main benefits of the pumpkin seeds?
They provide a healthy crunch and added nutrition to the salad.
What size bowl should I use to mix the spinach and dressing?
A large salad bowl is recommended to allow enough room for tossing.
What is the overall flavor profile of this salad?
It is a fresh and vibrant salad with a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.