Salad > Vegetable Salads > Asian Salads > Spinach Salad

Water Chestnut and Spinach Salad Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
- 1 can (8 oz) sliced water chestnuts, drained
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- None

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, water chestnuts, red onion, cilantro, and peanuts.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 135
- Total fat: 6g
- Saturated fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 430mg
- Total carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Baby spinach can be used instead of regular spinach
- Sliced almonds can be used instead of peanuts
- Red wine vinegar can be used instead of rice vinegar
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey
- Olive oil can be used instead of sesame oil

Variations:
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
- Use different nuts such as cashews or pecans
- Add sliced avocado for creaminess
- Use different greens such as arugula or kale

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to dry the spinach leaves well to prevent the dressing from becoming watery
- Toast the peanuts for extra flavor
- Double the dressing recipe and use it as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days

Reheating instructions:
- None

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large salad bowl or on individual plates
- Garnish with extra cilantro and peanuts

Garnishes:
- Extra cilantro and peanuts

Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Steamed rice

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Spring rolls

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too sweet, add more rice vinegar or soy sauce to balance it out
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly before using

Food history:
- Water chestnuts are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine and are often used in stir-fries and salads

Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, tangy, nutty, and fresh

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables

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Taste: Crisp, Tangy, Savory, Nutty