Description
A vibrant and refreshing Apple Spinach Salad featuring fresh spinach leaves, crisp apple slices, red onion, and toasted nuts, all tossed in a tangy honey-mustard lemon dressing. This easy and quick salad is perfect for a light lunch or a healthy side dish, combining sweet, savory, and nutty flavors for a delightful taste experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Emulsify the dressing: Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while continuously whisking to create a smooth and emulsified dressing.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add fresh spinach leaves, thinly sliced apples, red onion, and toasted walnuts or pecans.
- Toss the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients without bruising the spinach.
- Add cheese and serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top if desired, and serve the salad immediately to enjoy its freshness.
Notes
- Use crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture and flavor.
- To toast nuts, warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
- This salad is best eaten fresh to maintain the crunchiness of the spinach and apples.
- Adjust sweetness of dressing by adding more or less honey based on preference.
- Leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; whisk before use.
