Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and sliced almonds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature: None
Serving size: 4
Nutritional information:
Calories: 290
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 460mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be used instead of regular spinach.
- Turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon.
- Goat cheese can be used instead of feta cheese.
- Walnuts or pecans can be used instead of sliced almonds.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the salad.
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar.
- Add sliced hard-boiled eggs to the salad.
- Add sliced avocado to the salad.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
Storage instructions:
This salad is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
This salad is best served cold and should not be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
Garnishes:
Garnish the salad with additional sliced almonds or crumbled bacon.
Pairings:
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve this salad with a side of crusty bread or a simple pasta dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bacon to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Spinach has been cultivated for thousands of years and was first introduced to the United States in the early 1800s. Bacon has been a popular ingredient in American cuisine since the colonial era.
Flavor profiles:
This salad is savory, salty, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A