Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 Tomino del Mel cheese rounds, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the spinach leaves and pat them dry.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, walnuts, and dried cranberries.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Divide the salad onto four plates and top each with sliced Tomino del Mel cheese.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- None
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be used instead of regular spinach.
- Feta cheese or goat cheese can be used instead of Tomino del Mel cheese.
- Pecans or almonds can be used instead of walnuts.
- Dried cherries or raisins can be used instead of dried cranberries.
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Swap out the balsamic dressing for a honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette.
Tips and Tricks:
- Toast the walnuts for added flavor and crunch.
- Use a mandoline to thinly slice the red onion.
- Serve the salad with crusty bread for a complete meal.
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 on a large platter for a family-style meal.
- Arrange the spinach leaves in a circular pattern and place the cheese slices in the center for an elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- None
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dressing is too tart, add a teaspoon of honey to balance the flavors.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Food History:
- Tomino del Mel is a soft, creamy cheese from the Italian region of Piedmont.
Flavor Profiles:
- The salad is a combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the tangy balsamic dressing balancing out the richness of the cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the salad as a light lunch or as a side dish to a larger meal.
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
Taste: Citrusy, Tangy, Refreshing, Savory, Nutty