Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, almonds, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately.
10 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute pecans or walnuts for the almonds.
- Substitute goat cheese for the feta cheese.
- Substitute raisins or chopped apricots for the dried cranberries.
- Substitute shallots for the red onion.
Variations:
- Add sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges for a fruity twist.
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add sliced avocado or cucumber for extra freshness.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to dry the spinach leaves thoroughly to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
- Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more honey to taste.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions: None
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional sliced almonds and dried cranberries.
Garnishes:
- Additional sliced almonds and dried cranberries.
Pairings:
- Serve with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp skewers.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too tart, add more honey to taste.
- If the salad seems dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days.
Food history:
- Spinach has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and is believed to have originated in Persia.
- Feta cheese is a staple in Greek cuisine and has been made for thousands of years.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the tartness of the dressing complementing the sweetness of the dried cranberries.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meat or fish.
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