Delicious Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans

Imagine a vibrant bowl filled with fresh greens, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans—a Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans that dances on your tongue like a party in your mouth. This salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing louder than a karaoke night gone wrong. The sweet crunch of apples meets the nutty richness of pecans, all while spinach adds a gentle earthiness that whispers “healthy” without sacrificing flavor.

Now, let me take you back to the summer picnic where I first fell in love with this salad. My aunt, armed with her oversized sun hat and a smile wider than the picnic blanket, brought this masterpiece along. We were all busy devouring hot dogs and potato salad when she unveiled her creation like it was a trophy. One bite, and I was hooked—this salad had everything: charm, elegance, and the power to transform any gathering into an extraordinary event. Whether it’s for a sunny afternoon BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, this salad promises to be the star of the show.

Ingredients for Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Baby Spinach: Use about 4 cups of tender baby spinach leaves for their mild flavor and vibrant color.
• Crisp Apples: Choose your favorite variety—Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonders for sweetness and crunch.
• Pecans: About 1 cup of toasted pecans adds a delightful nuttiness; feel free to toast them yourself for extra flavor.
• Dried Cranberries: A half-cup brings additional sweetness and color contrast; look for ones without added sugar if possible.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions offer a sharp bite; use them sparingly if you prefer milder flavors.
• Olive Oil: About 3 tablespoons will serve as the base for your dressing; choose extra virgin for the best taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Two tablespoons add tangy depth; you can swap it out for apple cider vinegar if you wish.
• Maple Syrup: Just one tablespoon will enhance the dressing’s sweetness naturally—no need for excessive sugar here!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing your fresh baby spinach under cold water. Pat it dry gently using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Place it in a large mixing bowl that can accommodate all your fabulous ingredients.

Step 2: Chop Those Apples

Core and slice your crisp apples into thin wedges—aim for about half an apple per serving. Toss them into the bowl with the spinach to ensure they stay fresh and don’t brown too quickly.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast those pecans until they’re fragrant—about three to five minutes will do. Keep stirring them to prevent burning because no one wants burnt nuts ruining their salad!

Step 4: Create Your Dressing

In a small bowl or jar (bonus points if it’s cute), whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well-blended. If you’re feeling fancy, shake it up like you mean it!

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture followed by dried cranberries and thin slices of red onion. Gently toss everything together until every leaf is coated with that delicious dressing.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Transfer your beautiful Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans onto plates or serve directly from the bowl at your next gathering. Watch as everyone digs in like they’ve never seen greens before!

And there you have it! A salad that’s not only simple but also impressively packed with flavor and nutrition. Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal or as part of a buffet—you won’t regret this decision!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make your simple spinach salad with apples & pecans shine, start by washing and drying the spinach thoroughly. While prepping the salad, toast the pecans for an extra crunch. Finally, slice your apples just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in feta cheese or swap in walnuts instead of pecans if you prefer. Toss in some dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness or use a zesty citrus vinaigrette to elevate the flavor profile of your simple spinach salad with apples & pecans.

Storing & Reheating

For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within two days. Avoid reheating this salad as it’s best enjoyed cold, maintaining its crunchy texture and vibrant flavors.

I remember preparing this simple spinach salad with apples & pecans for my cousin’s birthday party last year. Everyone raved about how refreshing it was! It’s those moments that remind me why I love cooking—bringing people together over delicious food.

FAQs:

What are the health benefits of a Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans?

A Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans offers numerous health benefits. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and bones. Apples provide fiber and antioxidants that support digestive health. Pecans add healthy fats and protein, making this salad a balanced meal option. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense dish that promotes overall well-being while being low in calories.

Can I prepare the Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans ahead of time. However, it is best to store the dressing separately until you are ready to serve. This prevents the spinach from wilting and keeps the apples crisp. You can chop the ingredients and assemble everything in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just add the dressing and toss to combine for a fresh taste.

What variations can I make to this Simple Spinach Salad?

You can easily customize your Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans by adding other ingredients. Consider incorporating feta cheese for a salty contrast or swapping pecans for walnuts for a different flavor. Dried cranberries or raisins can add sweetness, while sliced red onion provides a zesty kick. Experimenting with different fruits like pears or berries will also enhance the salad’s taste and texture.

Is there a recommended dressing for this salad?

A light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with a Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans. You can whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create a tangy dressing that complements the flavors of the salad. For added creaminess, consider using yogurt-based dressings or tahini as alternatives. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference for the perfect balance.

Conclusion for Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans:

In summary, this Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh spinach, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture and flavor profile. Preparing this salad ahead of time allows for convenience without sacrificing freshness. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings to suit your personal taste while enjoying its many health benefits!

Print

Simple Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Elevate your meal with this Simple Spinach Salad featuring fresh baby spinach, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette. This vibrant salad is not only quick to prepare but also a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 medium crisp apple (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), sliced
• 1 cup toasted pecans
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly, placing it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Core and slice the apple into thin wedges; add to the bowl.
3. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture along with cranberries and red onion; toss gently until well-coated.
6. Serve immediately on plates or directly from the bowl.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 142mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or swapping pecans for walnuts. To maintain freshness, store leftover salad without dressing in an airtight container for up to two days.