Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 toutons, sliced into small pieces
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced toutons and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the heat and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top the salad with the cooked toutons and serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 8 minutes
Temperature:
- Skillet over medium heat
Serving size:
- Serves 2
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Toutons can be substituted with croutons or toasted bread cubes.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute spinach with mixed greens or arugula.
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the toutons thinly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the dressing.
- Toss the salad just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
Storage instructions:
- This salad is best served fresh and should not be stored.
Reheating instructions:
- N/A
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Arrange the toutons on top of the salad for an eye-catching presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the toutons are not cooked through, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Toutons are a traditional Newfoundland dish made from fried dough.
Flavor profiles:
- The salad has a combination of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or dinner.
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