Warm Wilted Spinach Salad with Pine Nuts and Feta
Indulge in this delightful Warm Wilted Spinach Salad that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite. The vibrant green spinach, warmed just enough to bring out its tenderness, is complemented by the crunchy, toasted pine nuts and the creamy, tangy feta cheese. Sweet hints from golden raisins or dried cranberries, along with a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing, create a refreshing balance. This quick and easy salad is not only satiating but can also be adapted to your taste; feel free to toss in additional ingredients like grilled chicken or other nuts for an even heartier meal. Perfect as a lunch option or a light snack, it’s an explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pine nuts
1 tablespoon (Toasted)
Baby Spinach
4 ounces (Prewashed)
Extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Sugar
1 pinch (N/A)
Feta cheese
2 tablespoons (Crumbled)
Golden raisins or dried cranberries
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Red onions
2 teaspoons (Minced)
Instructions
1
Start by toasting the pine nuts. Place them in a microwavable bowl and heat on high for 30 seconds. Stir the nuts, and then continue to heat for another 30 seconds, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2
In a separate large microwave-safe bowl, add the prewashed baby spinach. Cover it with plastic wrap to trap the steam, and microwave on high for 1 minute. After the minute is up, toss the spinach and microwave for an additional 30 seconds or until just wilted. Be careful not to overcook it.
3
While the spinach is wilting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of sugar until well combined.
4
Now, stir the crumbled feta, golden raisins, and minced red onions into the dressing. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Once the spinach is wilted, pour the dressing over it and gently toss to combine all ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top and serve immediately for a warm, comforting salad.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Warm Wilted Spinach Salad with Pine Nuts and Feta?
It is a quick and flavorful salad featuring tender baby spinach, toasted pine nuts, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing.
How do you toast the pine nuts for this recipe?
Place them in a microwavable bowl and heat on high for 30 seconds, stir, then heat for another 30 seconds until golden brown.
How is the spinach wilted?
The baby spinach is placed in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with plastic wrap, and microwaved on high for about 1 to 1.5 minutes.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh baby spinach?
Fresh baby spinach is recommended for this recipe to achieve the desired wilted texture without becoming mushy.
What ingredients are in the salad dressing?
The dressing is made from extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper.
What type of cheese is used in this salad?
The recipe calls for crumbled feta cheese, which adds a creamy and tangy flavor.
Is there a fruit component in this spinach salad?
Yes, you can use either golden raisins or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
How should the red onions be prepared?
The red onions should be minced before being added to the dressing.
Can I add meat to this salad?
Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken or another protein of your choice to make it a heartier meal.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Absolutely, it is designed to be a quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch or snack.
Should the salad be served warm or cold?
This salad is intended to be served immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Why is the bowl covered with plastic wrap when microwaving the spinach?
The plastic wrap traps steam, which helps to wilt the spinach quickly and evenly.
Can I substitute the pine nuts?
Yes, feel free to use other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: pine nuts, baby spinach, olive oil, lemon juice, sugar, feta, raisins/cranberries, and red onions.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe due to the fresh spinach, nuts, and olive oil dressing.
What can I use if I don't have a microwave?
You can toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat and wilt the spinach in a pan with a splash of water.
Does the recipe require salt and pepper?
Yes, the instructions suggest adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Why is sugar added to the dressing?
A pinch of sugar helps balance the acidity of the lemon juice and the saltiness of the feta.
What is the preparation for the pine nuts?
They should be toasted to bring out their nutty flavor and fragrance.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
While lemon is recommended, lime juice can provide a similar citrusy tang if needed.
How do I prevent the spinach from overcooking?
Microwave it in short intervals and stop as soon as it is just wilted.
Is the salad gluten-free?
Based on the ingredient list, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can this be made vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative.
How much olive oil is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
How much spinach is used per serving?
The recipe uses 4 ounces of prewashed baby spinach for the salad.
What is the texture of the finished salad?
It features a combination of tender wilted greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese.
Is this a good snack option?
Yes, the recipe description lists it as a perfect light snack option.
How do I mix the dressing?
Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, and sugar together in a small bowl before adding the feta and onions.
Can I use white onions instead of red onions?
You can, but red onions are preferred for their color and slightly milder, sweeter flavor when raw.
How long does the entire process take?
The recipe is very quick, taking only a few minutes for toasting, wilting, and assembly.