Looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that will awaken your taste buds? The "Start Fresh Spinach Beet Salad" is a colorful medley of flavors and textures that not only delights the palate but also packs a powerful nutritional punch! Imagine fresh spinach mingling with roasted beets, creamy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all drizzled with a zesty balsamic dressing. This quick and easy salad can be whipped up in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect addition to your meal prep or a stunning side for your next gathering. Dive into this recipe and discover how to elevate your salad game to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Salad
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 2 medium beets, roasted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the beets. If you haven't done so already, roast the beets by wrapping them in aluminum foil and placing them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Allow them to cool, then peel and slice the beets into thin rounds.
- While the beets are roasting, wash the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Gently pat the spinach dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh spinach. Layer the roasted beet slices on top of the spinach.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the spinach and beets, followed by the chopped walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the spinach is well coated with the dressing.
- Serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. Enjoy your fresh spinach beet salad as a delightful and nutritious side dish or light main course!
Tips
- Roasting Beets: For the best flavor, roast your beets in advance. This can be done a day ahead; simply store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble your salad. The sweetness of roasted beets really enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- Spinach Selection: Choose fresh, vibrant spinach leaves for the salad. Baby spinach works wonderfully for a tender texture, but you can also use mature spinach if that's what you have on hand.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy and tangy element to the salad. If you prefer a stronger flavor, opt for aged feta, or for a milder taste, try using fresh goat cheese.
- Nut Alternatives: Feel free to swap out walnuts for other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with the dressing by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a touch of honey for a sweet and tangy twist. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served as a light main dish or as a side. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to keep the spinach crisp. Combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 215kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
