Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crumbled caciocavallo affumicato cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse and dry the spinach leaves and place them in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, sliced almonds, and crumbled caciocavallo affumicato cheese to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- None
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach leaves can be substituted with arugula or mixed greens.
- Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes.
- Red onion can be substituted with thinly sliced shallots or green onions.
- Sliced almonds can be substituted with chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Caciocavallo affumicato cheese can be substituted with smoked provolone or smoked gouda.
Variations:
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to rinse and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Crumble the caciocavallo affumicato cheese with your hands for a rustic look.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served immediately and should not be stored.
Reheating instructions:
- None
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large wooden salad bowl for a rustic look.
- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing to taste.
- If the salad is too salty, reduce the amount of cheese or omit the salt from the dressing.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the salad.
- Use fresh ingredients and discard any spoiled or expired items.
Food history:
- Caciocavallo affumicato is a traditional Italian cheese that is smoked over a wood fire.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a balance of sweet and tangy flavors from the balsamic vinegar and honey, with a smoky and nutty flavor from the caciocavallo affumicato cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian