Description
Spinach salad is a light, refreshing, and nutrient-rich dish made with tender baby spinach, crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a flavorful homemade dressing. It’s easy to customize and perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced or chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup nuts or seeds (walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or sliced strawberries (optional)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large salad bowl, combine baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add diced avocado, cheese (if using), nuts or seeds, and optional fruit like cranberries or strawberries.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly and serve immediately.
Notes
Only dress the portion you plan to eat immediately to keep spinach fresh.Add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or boiled eggs to make it a full meal.Swap balsamic for lemon vinaigrette or raspberry dressing for a flavor change.Toss avocado in lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping ahead.Dressing can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
