Spinach Salad Recipe

This bright Spinach Salad screams spring! Filled with flavor from the nutritious and delicious toppings, it’s a salad you won’t want to miss.

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Spinach is one of my favorite greens to make salads with, followed closely by arugula! While arugula is slightly spicy, spinach is mild and earthy. This is why the base of this salad is made completely of spinach; to make the dressing and toppings the stars of the show! Bringing color, a little flavor, and a lot of crunch, the spinach acts as a neutral bed of greens, taking a back seat and allowing all the flavors from the crisp apples, almonds, dried cranberries, and feta to really stand out.

These ingredients work together so well, regardless of the season you are in. Plus, these are all products you can find year-round in your local grocery store. The best part is, the salad comes together in no time, and is flexible in terms of the ingredients. Feel free to mix and match to taste, and allow this dish to plant inspiration.

Is this Spinach Salad Healthy?

Not only is this salad healthy, but it’s also hearty and includes a wide range of nutrients thanks to the ingredients. First is the spinach which has vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, folate, and potassium. Then there are the added health benefits from the apples, including fiber and antioxidants. Almonds are a good source of plant-based protein, and they contain healthy unsaturated fats. To make this salad vegan, choose a vegan-friendly mustard, swap the honey for agave syrup and substitute a dairy-free feta cheese.

Endless variations

This salad is perfect as is, and the flavors blend together so well. With that said, if you don’t have one of the many ingredients listed below, don’t fret. Just try and keep the apples, feta, and apple cider/Dijon combo because they really make the dish. But other than that, have fun with it! No olive oil on hand? No worries! Use coconut oil or avocado oil. How about nuts? Walnuts, cashews, and pistachios will all do, just make sure to toast them.

INGREDIENTS

10 oz fresh baby spinach
1 medium apple, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

Dress

Prepare homemade dressing.

Mix

Combine salad ingredients.

Toss

Pour over salad dressing and toss.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store

To make ahead, combine the salad ingredients together and store in the fridge with the dressing kept separately. Don’t dress the salad until you’re ready to serve, as this will prevent sogginess. When ready to enjoy, toss your salad with the dressing, and serve immediately for peak freshness. Do not store leftovers as the spinach will wilt and soften in the dressing.

experiment with greens

While spinach is a great choice, you can experiment with a mix of kale and arugula for a different texture and flavor. I also love to add blanched green veggies like broccolini or asparagus for extra crunch and juiciness.

which apples to use?

Opt for a sweet, crisp apple variety like Gala or Honeycrisp for added crunch. The pop of red also contrasts beautifully against the greens and whites in the bowl.

Serving Suggestions

This spinach salad recipe is a spring dream. Enjoy this salad on its own for a quick lunch, or as part of a healthy dinner. Top with Grilled Chicken Breasts or Baked Tofu for a protein punch, or mix in some quinoa for a textural twist. You can also serve it with this Pan-Fried Cod, or try this quick and easy Turkey Burger with a spinach salad on the side.