Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup crumbled mladi sir cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse and dry the spinach leaves.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, mladi sir cheese, walnuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.
3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: None
Temperature: None
Serving size: 4
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be used instead of regular spinach.
- Feta cheese can be used instead of mladi sir cheese.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
- Raisins or chopped dates can be used instead of dried cranberries.
- Shallots can be used instead of red onion.
Variations:
- Add sliced strawberries or diced apples for a fruity twist.
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as blue cheese or goat cheese.
- Swap out the balsamic vinaigrette for a different dressing, such as honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to dry the spinach leaves well to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Toast the walnuts for added flavor and crunch.
- Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming wilted.
Storage instructions:
This salad is best served fresh and should not be stored for more than a day.
Reheating instructions:
None
Presentation ideas:
Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper or chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the salad is too dry, add more dressing. If it is too wet, remove some of the excess dressing.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly before using.
Food history:
Mladi sir cheese is a type of fresh cheese that is popular in Croatia and other Balkan countries.
Flavor profiles:
This salad is a combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing complementing the creamy mladi sir cheese and crunchy walnuts.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner.
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