Crunchy Spinach Salad
Crunchy Spinach Salad earns its name from several textures rather than one. Spinach forms the soft base, peppers and carrot add crispness, walnuts bring a firmer bite, and dried fruit adds chew.
Feta is optional, but a small amount adds salt and creaminess without taking over the vegetables. The dressing is fuller than a simple vinaigrette, combining balsamic, honey, Dijon, herbs and optional garlic.
Crush dried herbs between your palms before adding them; that small step releases more aroma. Dress the salad just before serving so the spinach stays fresh and the crunchy ingredients remain distinct.
Ingredients
- 5–6 cups spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1–2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled, optional
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced, optional
Method
Combine the spinach, peppers, carrot, dried fruit, walnuts and optional feta in a large bowl. Shake the olive oil, balsamic, honey, Dijon, salt, pepper, dried herbs and optional garlic together. Pour over the salad, toss gently and serve immediately.
