Are you tired of boring, bland salads that leave you unsatisfied? Get ready to transform your meal with this mouthwatering Spinach Salad with Apple - a culinary masterpiece that combines crisp, fresh spinach with sweet apple slices, crunchy toasted walnuts, and tangy feta cheese. This isn't just a salad; it's a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you for such a nutritious delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly under cold running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Core the apple and slice it thinly into half-moon or wedge shapes. For best presentation and to prevent browning, slice the apple just before serving.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor and add a pleasant crunch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the fresh spinach leaves as a base.
- Arrange the sliced apple pieces evenly over the spinach.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad.
- Just before serving, drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the spinach and the freshness of the ingredients.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use the freshest spinach leaves possible. Look for bright green, crisp leaves with no wilting or yellowing.
- Apple Browning Prevention: To keep your apple slices looking pristine, slice them just before serving and consider tossing them in a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation.
- Toasting Nuts Technique: When toasting walnuts, watch them carefully and keep stirring. They can burn quickly! Remove from heat as soon as they become fragrant and golden.
- Dressing Hack: Make your vinaigrette ahead of time and store in a sealed container. The flavors will meld and become even more delicious if left for 30 minutes before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra gourmet touch, serve this salad immediately after dressing to maintain the perfect texture and prevent the spinach from becoming soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
