Savory Spinach Salad with Blue Cheese and Maple-Walnut Dressing
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Savory Spinach Salad that combines the peppery freshness of baby spinach with creamy blue cheese and toasted walnut halves. This delightful salad is finished with a warm, sweet maple dressing that perfectly balances the savory elements. Ideal as a starter or a light meal, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a nutritious boost, thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Gather your friends and family around the table to enjoy this elegant yet easy-to-prepare salad that is sure to impress and can be made in under 20 minutes!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Baby Spinach
10 ounces (Rinsed and dried)
Blue Cheese
1/3 pound (Crumble)
Walnut Halves
6 ounces can (Toasted)
Maple Syrup
1/4 cup (Warm)
Cider Vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons (None)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup (None)
Salt
To taste (None)
Black Pepper
To taste (Freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the spinach. Rinse the baby spinach leaves in cold water, and pat them dry with a kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
2
Next, arrange the baby spinach on a large serving platter or in individual bowls, creating a beautiful base for your salad.
3
Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the spinach, followed by the lightly toasted walnut halves to add a delightful crunch.
4
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the maple syrup until it becomes slightly runny but do not let it boil.
5
In a separate small bowl, pour in the cider vinegar. Slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is emulsified.
6
Gradually whisk the warmed maple syrup into the vinegar and oil dressing, combining all the flavors into a smooth mixture.
7
Drizzle the dressing generously over the spinach salad, ensuring that all ingredients are coated.
8
Finally, season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, tossing gently if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this salad?
The name of this recipe is the Savory Spinach Salad with Blue Cheese and Maple-Walnut Dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is listed as a vegetarian-friendly dish.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
This salad is quick to prepare and can be made in under 20 minutes.
What type of spinach is recommended?
The recipe calls for 10 ounces of baby spinach.
How much blue cheese is needed?
You will need 1/3 pound of crumbled blue cheese.
What is the preparation for the walnuts?
The walnut halves should be toasted before being added to the salad.
How is the maple syrup prepared for the dressing?
The maple syrup should be warmed in a small saucepan over low heat until slightly runny.
Should the maple syrup be boiled?
No, you should warm the syrup but do not let it reach a boil.
What kind of vinegar is used in the dressing?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 tablespoons of cider vinegar.
What type of oil is used for the dressing?
Extra virgin olive oil is the recommended oil for this recipe.
How many ingredients are required for this salad?
There are 8 ingredients in total, including salt and pepper.
How should I prepare the baby spinach?
Rinse the baby spinach leaves in cold water and pat them dry or use a salad spinner.
How is the dressing emulsified?
Slowly whisk the extra virgin olive oil into the cider vinegar until the mixture is emulsified.
When should I add the warmed maple syrup to the dressing?
Gradually whisk the warmed maple syrup into the vinegar and oil mixture after they are emulsified.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a nutritious boost thanks to its wholesome ingredients.
Can this salad be served as a main meal?
It is ideal as a starter or can be served as a light meal.
How should the salad be arranged for serving?
Arrange the spinach on a large serving platter or in individual bowls as a base.
What adds the crunch to this salad?
The toasted walnut halves provide a delightful crunch to the dish.
Is the dressing served cold?
The dressing uses warmed maple syrup, creating a warm dressing for the salad.
How much maple syrup is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of maple syrup.
What is the amount of walnuts needed?
The recipe calls for a 6 ounce can of walnut halves.
Should I season the salad with salt?
Yes, season the salad with salt to taste at the final stage.
What kind of pepper should be used?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for seasoning.
Can I toss the salad before serving?
Yes, you can toss the salad gently after drizzling the dressing if desired.
When should the salad be served?
The salad should be served immediately after the dressing and seasoning are added.
What is the flavor profile of the dressing?
The dressing is described as a warm, sweet maple dressing that balances the savory elements.
How much olive oil is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
What are the primary categories for this recipe?
The recipe is categorized as a salad, appetizer, and healthy vegetarian meal.
Is this recipe easy to make for beginners?
Yes, the instructions are straightforward and the recipe is described as easy-to-prepare.
How is the blue cheese added to the salad?
The blue cheese is crumbled and sprinkled evenly over the spinach base.