Imagine a salad so vibrant, so fresh, and so incredibly delicious that it will make you fall in love with healthy eating all over again! This Simple Spinach Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that combines crisp spinach leaves, tangy feta, and a mouthwatering vinaigrette that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, busy professionals, or anyone looking to elevate their lunch game in just 10 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh spinach leaves under cold running water, then pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Place the dried spinach leaves in a large salad bowl, creating a fresh green base for the salad.
- Thinly slice the red onion using a sharp knife, ensuring uniform, delicate cuts that will distribute evenly throughout the salad.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes by cutting them vertically, which will help release their sweet and tangy flavors.
- In a separate small mixing bowl, prepare the red wine vinaigrette by combining red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the ingredients are well emulsified and slightly thickened.
- Add the sliced red onions and halved cherry tomatoes to the spinach leaves.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad, distributing it evenly for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Drizzle the prepared red wine vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated.
- Gently toss the salad using salad servers or two large spoons, making sure all ingredients are well mixed and dressed.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the freshest flavors and crisp texture of the spinach.
Tips
- Salad Spinner Secret: Use a salad spinner to ensure your spinach is perfectly dry. Wet leaves will make your salad soggy and dilute the dressing's flavor.
- Vinaigrette Mixing Hack: Whisk your dressing in a jar with a tight lid for a smoother, more evenly blended result. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds to create a perfect emulsion.
- Cheese Temperature Tip: Let the feta sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before adding to the salad. This helps release its full flavor profile.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add grilled chicken, toasted nuts, or swap feta for goat cheese to make this recipe your own.
- Dressing Storage: Any leftover vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making meal prep even easier!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
