Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 cup hog plum, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 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. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves, hog plum slices, red onion, feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
15 minutes
Temperature: Room temperature
Serving size: 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be used instead of regular spinach.
- Goat cheese can be used instead of feta cheese.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- Add sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Use arugula instead of spinach for a peppery flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Tips and tricks:
- To make the salad ahead of time, prepare the ingredients and dressing separately and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Use a mandoline slicer to thinly slice the red onion.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional sliced hog plum and chopped walnuts.
Garnishes:
- Additional sliced hog plum and chopped walnuts.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too tart, add more honey to balance the flavors.
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days.
Food history:
- Hog plum, also known as ambarella, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and is commonly used in salads and chutneys.
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is a combination of sweet and tangy flavors from the hog plum, salty and creamy flavors from the feta cheese, and nutty flavors from the walnuts.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
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