Spinach and Bacon Salad with Creamy Dressing Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Salad bowl

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Add the spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the mixing bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.

3. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle with croutons and grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Serve immediately.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Room temperature
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 410
- Fat: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 13g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be used instead of regular spinach leaves.
- Turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon.
- Feta cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of lettuce, such as arugula or mixed greens.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to thoroughly wash the spinach leaves before using them in the salad.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for maximum flavor.
- Use a whisk to ensure that the dressing is well combined.

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 glass bowl to show off the colorful ingredients.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle extra croutons and Parmesan cheese on top of the salad for added texture.

Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables would complement this salad nicely.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
- Spinach salad has been a popular dish since the 1960s.

Flavor profiles:
- This salad has a combination of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner.

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Taste: Creamy, Savory, Smoky, Tangy, Salty