Crunchy Spinach Salad

Crunchy Spinach Salad Recipe - Almonds, Cabbage, Raisins, and More!

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Crunchy Spinach Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. The combination of fresh spinach, purple cabbage, toasted almonds, and raisins creates a flavorful and satisfying salad that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The origins of Crunchy Spinach Salad are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. This salad became popular due to its crunchy texture and sweet and tangy dressing, making it a favorite among salad lovers.

Ingredients

Spinach salad

0.5 lb (227 g) fresh spinach, torn into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp toasted slivered almonds
0.75 cup shredded purple cabbage
0.25 cup raisins

Dressing

0.25 cup sugar
0.75 tsp dry mustard
0.75 tsp salt
0.5 tsp celery seeds
1.5 tbsp minced onion
0.25 cup vinegar
0.5 cup vegetable oil

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except dressing.
Toss the mixture and serve with dressing.

Dressing

In a jar, combine all ingredients.
Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously.
Chill the dressing for several hours.
Before serving over salad, shake the dressing again.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Substitute dried cranberries for raisins for a different flavor profile.
Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the spinach before tearing it into bite-sized pieces.

- Toasting the slivered almonds adds a delicious nutty flavor to the salad.

- For a more intense flavor, let the dressing chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crunchy Spinach Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Toss the salad ingredients together gently to avoid crushing the spinach leaves.

- Shake the dressing vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar in the dressing for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but wait to combine them until just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Crunchy Spinach Salad in a large salad bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with additional toasted almonds for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crunchy Spinach Salad with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 18g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 22g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 110% DV

Vitamin C: 40% DV

Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains nuts (almonds)

Summary

Crunchy Spinach Salad is a nutritious dish that is high in vitamins A and C, as well as iron. It is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Summary

Crunchy Spinach Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its crunchy texture, sweet and tangy dressing, and nutritious ingredients, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, always whipping up delicious meals that left us all begging for more.

One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, she handed me a worn and tattered recipe card. It was for a Crunchy Spinach Salad that she had gotten from a friend many years ago. As she explained the ingredients and steps to me, I could see the twinkle in her eye – she knew this salad was something special.

I watched as she effortlessly chopped the fresh spinach, red onions, and cherry tomatoes, tossing them together in a large mixing bowl. The secret ingredient, she said, was the toasted almonds and crispy bacon that added the perfect crunch to the salad. As she drizzled on the tangy balsamic vinaigrette, the salad came together in a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

I eagerly took notes, wanting to remember every detail of this recipe so that I could recreate it on my own. My grandmother smiled as she watched me, knowing that I was on my way to becoming a skilled cook just like her.

Over the years, I have made this Crunchy Spinach Salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to make it my own. I have added different ingredients – like feta cheese, dried cranberries, and grilled chicken – to give it a unique twist. But no matter how I change it, the salad always brings back memories of that day in the kitchen with my grandmother.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making this delicious salad from generation to generation. It has become a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, always receiving rave reviews from those who try it.

As I look back on that day when I first learned to make Crunchy Spinach Salad, I am filled with gratitude for my grandmother and all that she taught me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, and this recipe holds a special place in my heart.

So as I prepare to make this salad once again, I can't help but think of my grandmother and the legacy of delicious recipes that she has passed down to me. And as I take that first bite of the Crunchy Spinach Salad, I know that her spirit lives on in every mouthful.