Vibrant Spinach Salad with Citrus, Cherries, and Candied Pecans
Experience a delightful medley of flavors and textures with our Vibrant Spinach Salad. Juicy, sweet oranges perfectly complement the tartness of dried cherries, while creamy goat cheese adds a luscious touch. Candied pecans introduce a satisfying crunch, effortlessly harmonizing with a balsamic vinaigrette that ties everything together. Perfect for a refreshing appetizer or a light main course, this salad brings a burst of color and taste to your table.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
candied pecans
1 cup (break apart if necessary)
navel oranges
4 (segmented)
shallot
1 (chopped, about 2 tablespoons)
balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
salt and pepper
to taste (none)
Baby Spinach
9 ounces (pre-washed in a bag)
dried cherries
1/2 cup (none)
goat cheese
1/2 cup (crumbled)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the oranges. Using a sharp knife, cut off the peel and white pith, then carefully segment the oranges over a bowl to catch the juices. Set aside the segments in the bowl.
2
In another bowl, whisk together the chopped shallot and balsamic vinegar. Gradually add olive oil, whisking constantly to emulsify. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste.
3
In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, dried cherries, and orange segments. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly with the dressing.
4
Break apart the candied pecans and sprinkle them over the salad along with the crumbled goat cheese.
5
Serve immediately, allowing the vibrant flavors and varied textures to shine.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Vibrant Spinach Salad with Citrus, Cherries, and Candied Pecans.
How many servings does this spinach salad make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What are the primary greens used in this salad?
The salad uses 9 ounces of baby spinach.
What type of oranges are used?
The recipe calls for 4 navel oranges.
How should the oranges be prepared?
The oranges should be segmented, with the peel and white pith removed.
What kind of cheese is included?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese.
What type of nuts are used for the crunch?
The recipe includes 1 cup of candied pecans.
What dried fruit is added to the salad?
It includes 1/2 cup of dried cherries.
What ingredients make up the balsamic vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette consists of shallot, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
How much balsamic vinegar is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar.
How much olive oil is used in the dressing?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this is a vegetarian salad.
How much shallot should I use?
Use 1 shallot, chopped, which is about 2 tablespoons.
When do I add the candied pecans and goat cheese?
They should be sprinkled over the salad after it has been tossed with the vinaigrette.
How do you emulsify the salad dressing?
Whisk the shallot and vinegar together, then gradually add olive oil while whisking constantly.
What is the preparation for the candied pecans?
The pecans should be broken apart if necessary before being added to the salad.
Should the salad be served immediately?
Yes, it should be served immediately to allow the vibrant flavors and textures to shine.
How should the orange juice be handled during preparation?
You should segment the oranges over a bowl to catch the juices and set them aside with the segments.
Is there any salt and pepper in this recipe?
Yes, salt and pepper are added to the vinaigrette to taste.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 9 ingredients in this recipe.
What is the description of the salad's flavor profile?
It is a medley of juicy sweet oranges, tart dried cherries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans with a balsamic vinaigrette.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it is perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a light main course.
How do you ensure the spinach is evenly coated?
Pour the vinaigrette over the spinach, cherries, and oranges and toss gently.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include spinach salad, orange salad, candied pecans, dried cherries, goat cheese, balsamic vinaigrette, healthy salad, vegetarian, fruit salad, and light meal.
What type of vinegar is specified?
Balsamic vinegar is specified for the vinaigrette.
How many navel oranges are required?
You will need 4 navel oranges.
Is the spinach pre-washed?
The recipe ingredients suggest using 9 ounces of pre-washed baby spinach.
What provides the creamy texture in the salad?
The crumbled goat cheese provides a creamy, luscious touch.
What kind of cherries should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for dried cherries.
What tool is recommended for preparing the oranges?
A sharp knife is recommended to cut off the peel and white pith.