Spinach Salad

A good salad doesn’t have to feel plain or forgettable. This one is fresh, cozy in its own way, and easy enough to pull together on even the busiest days. Spinach salad is loved because it’s light but still satisfying, simple but full of texture. It works just as well alongside a warm dinner as it does on its own for a quick meal. The ingredients are easy to find, and everything comes together without turning on the oven. I usually rinse the spinach first thing and let it dry while I prep the rest, which makes the whole process feel calm and doable. It’s a recipe that fits real life, not just special occasions.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, flexible, and full of fresh flavor. The spinach stays tender, the toppings add crunch, and the dressing brings everything together without overpowering the greens. It’s weeknight-friendly and easy to adjust based on what you already have at home. You can make a big bowl for family dinners or a smaller one for lunch and save the rest for later. It’s budget-conscious, comes together quickly, and doesn’t leave you with piles of dishes. This spinach salad is also crowd-pleasing because everyone can customize their plate. It’s cozy in a quiet, everyday way, and that’s exactly why it’s worth saving.

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Ingredients

Tip: Baby spinach is best because it’s tender and doesn’t need chopping.

  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach
  • ½ cup sliced red onion
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Wash the spinach thoroughly and dry it well so the leaves stay crisp. Slice the onion thin and halve the tomatoes. Set everything aside where it’s easy to grab, keeping the spinach light and fluffy in a large bowl.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
There’s no real cooking here, but lightly toast the almonds in a dry pan if you like. Stir them gently until they smell warm and nutty, then let them cool so they stay crunchy in the salad.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add spinach, onion, tomatoes, and almonds to a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Toss gently with clean hands or tongs until the leaves look lightly coated and glossy, not weighed down.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Sprinkle feta over the top and season with salt and pepper. Give one last gentle toss and let the salad rest for a minute so the flavors settle before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This salad comes together in minutes and doesn’t require planning ahead. You can prep the vegetables earlier in the day and toss everything together right before eating. It’s easy to double, travels well, and fits neatly into meal prep routines for lunches or simple dinners later on.

Tips & Tricks

  • Make sure the spinach is completely dry before dressing it. Wet leaves cause the dressing to slide off and pool at the bottom, leaving the salad bland instead of evenly coated.
  • Slice onions thin and separate the rings. Thick pieces can overpower the salad and distract from the balance of flavors instead of blending in gently.
  • Dress the salad just before serving. Letting it sit too long causes the spinach to wilt and lose its fresh texture.
  • Taste before adding more salt. Feta and olives, if added, already bring saltiness, so a light hand keeps everything balanced.

Variations

Meaty Version
Add grilled chicken, sliced turkey, or crispy bacon pieces. Keep portions modest so the salad stays balanced. This turns it into a filling main dish without losing its fresh feel.

Vegetarian Option
Include roasted chickpeas or boiled eggs for extra protein. Both add substance while keeping the salad simple and home-friendly.

Ingredient Swap
Swap almonds for walnuts or sunflower seeds if that’s what you have. The crunch matters more than the exact nut.

Flavor or Herb Boost
Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A small handful brings brightness and makes the salad feel extra fresh without extra work.

Serving Suggestions

  • Alongside Warm Dishes
    Serve this salad next to pasta, soup, or roasted vegetables. The fresh greens balance heavier meals nicely and keep dinner feeling complete.
  • As a Light Lunch
    Add protein and enjoy it on its own. It’s easy to pack and doesn’t feel heavy halfway through the day.
  • Family-Style Bowl
    Place it in a large bowl at the center of the table so everyone can help themselves. It keeps meals relaxed and inviting.
  • Simple Presentation
    Use a wide, shallow bowl so the toppings stay visible. It makes the salad feel special without extra effort.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage
    Store undressed spinach and toppings separately in airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Combine only what you plan to eat.
  • Reheating
    This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Do not reheat, as heat wilts the spinach quickly.
  • Freezing
    Freezing is not recommended. Spinach becomes watery and loses texture once thawed.
  • Make-Ahead Tips
    Prep all ingredients in advance and store separately. Mix the dressing ahead and shake before using for quick assembly.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes (optional toasting)
  • Rest Time: 1 minute
  • Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

Each serving contains roughly 180–220 calories with about 5–7 grams of protein. Vitamin A and iron are key nutrients from the spinach. Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients, brands, and portion sizes.

FAQs

Yes, keep ingredients separate until serving.

Dressing the salad too early.

Yes, goat cheese works well.

The spinach was likely too wet.

Up to three days undressed.

Conclusion

This recipe is proof that simple ingredients can still feel special. It’s easy to adjust, easy to remember, and easy to come back to whenever you need something fresh and reliable. You can change the toppings, swap the dressing, or turn it into a full meal without starting from scratch. Spinach salad fits into busy days, quiet evenings, and shared family meals without effort. Save it, make it your own, and keep it handy for those moments when you want something light, comforting, and familiar on the table.

Spinach Salad
Print

Spinach Salad

Recipe by Edan SalamonCourse: Salad Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

200

kcal

A fresh, simple salad with tender spinach, crunchy toppings, and a light dressing. Easy to make and perfect for everyday meals.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups baby spinach

  • ½ cup sliced red onion

  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ¼ cup sliced almonds

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Directions

  • Wash and dry the spinach well. Place in a large bowl.
  • Add onion, tomatoes, and almonds.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Toss gently.
  • Sprinkle with feta, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.

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