Fresh Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
This fresh and vibrant spinach salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, featuring crisp baby spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, crunchy red onions, and toasted almonds. A homemade balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together, making this dish a delightful option for any meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for those who want to cook their own meals.
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad. In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and red onion.
Add the Vinaigrette. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Top the Salad. Sprinkle the toasted almonds and feta cheese (if using) over the top of the salad.
Serve. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe tips
To enhance the flavor of the almonds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and fragrant. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can add sliced strawberries for a sweet touch or swap the feta for goat cheese. You can prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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