Turkey, Orange and Spinach Salad

Turkey, Orange and Spinach Salad Recipe

| Servings: 4

Introduction

This Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh baby spinach, juicy oranges, and tender turkey creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic spinach salad, which has been a popular dish for many years. The addition of turkey and oranges adds a unique flavor and texture to the traditional salad, making it a refreshing and satisfying meal option.

Ingredients

8 cups fresh baby spinach, torn into bite-sized pieces
8 oz (227 g) cooked turkey, cubed
2 medium oranges, peeled and sectioned
0.25 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp honey
0.5 tsp poppy seeds
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp dry mustard

How to prepare

In a large salad bowl, toss together the spinach, turkey, and orange sections.
To make the dressing, combine the orange juice, oil, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and mustard in an airtight container.
Cover the container tightly and shake until the ingredients are well combined.
Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to evenly coat the ingredients.
Divide the salad equally onto four salad plates.

Variations

Add some sliced almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and protein.
Substitute chicken for the turkey for a different flavor profile.
Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh baby spinach for the best flavor and texture in this salad.

- When sectioning the oranges, be sure to remove all of the white pith to avoid any bitter taste in the salad.

- For a more flavorful dressing, let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or dinner on its own, or paired with a side of crusty bread or a cup of soup for a more filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to ensure that the spinach is fresh and crisp, and that the oranges are juicy and sweet. Be sure to toss the salad gently to avoid crushing the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh oranges, you can use canned mandarin oranges or even grapefruit for a different flavor. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or ham instead of turkey.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just toss the salad together right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this salad on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of poppy seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to toss the salad well before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

This Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This salad contains approximately 7 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of this salad provides approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron, thanks to the fresh spinach and oranges.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies to ingredients such as oranges or turkey.

Summary

Overall, this salad is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With its fresh ingredients and flavorful dressing, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a potluck with some friends from my cooking club. As I made my way through the buffet line, my eyes landed on a vibrant salad that immediately caught my attention. It was a Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad, and it looked absolutely delicious.

I couldn't resist trying it, and as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to get the recipe. I tracked down the person who had brought the salad and begged her to share the secret behind its deliciousness. She was more than happy to oblige and even offered to teach me how to make it myself.

As I watched her prepare the salad, I was amazed at how simple and yet flavorful the ingredients were. The combination of juicy oranges, tender turkey, and fresh spinach created a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I made a mental note to add this recipe to my collection and share it with my loved ones.

Over the years, I've made this Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. Each time I make it, I'm reminded of that fateful potluck where I discovered this gem of a recipe. It has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress.

One of the key components of this salad is the marinated turkey. I learned from the woman at the potluck that marinating the turkey in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs adds a depth of flavor that elevates the salad to a whole new level. The turkey becomes tender and juicy, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the oranges and the earthiness of the spinach.

Another crucial element of this salad is the homemade orange vinaigrette. Made with freshly squeezed orange juice, honey, mustard, and olive oil, this dressing ties all the ingredients together in a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors. It's light and refreshing, perfect for drizzling over the salad just before serving.

As I prepare this salad for my family and friends, I can't help but feel a sense of pride in sharing a recipe that has brought me so much joy. It's a dish that embodies the essence of summer, with its bright colors and vibrant flavors. Whether I'm serving it at a casual backyard barbecue or a formal dinner party, this Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad never fails to impress.

I've shared this recipe with countless people over the years, and each time I do, I pass on a piece of myself. It's a way of connecting with others through the universal language of food, a way of showing love and care through a simple yet delicious dish. I hope that whoever tries this salad will experience the same joy and satisfaction that I do each time I make it.

In the end, it's not just about the ingredients or the preparation technique. It's about the memories and the stories that come with each bite. It's about the friendships forged and the bonds strengthened over a shared love of good food. And for me, this Turkey, Orange, and Spinach Salad will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the magic that can happen when you follow your culinary instincts and let your taste buds guide you.