Apple and Baby Spinach Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Maple Dijon Dressing

Salads are often seen as light meals or side dishes, but they can also be incredibly satisfying and nutritious. One of the most delightful combinations you can enjoy is an Apple and Baby Spinach Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Maple Dijon Dressing. This salad blends fresh ingredients like crisp apples, vibrant baby spinach, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted walnuts, all topped with a flavorful maple Dijon dressing.

This article will walk you through every detail of this delicious salad, from the ingredients and preparation steps to the health benefits, nutritional facts, and tips for creating the perfect salad every time. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a healthy snack, or a vibrant side dish for your dinner, this salad is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients for Apple and Baby Spinach Salad

To prepare this Apple and Baby Spinach Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Maple Dijon Dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups baby spinach – Fresh, tender spinach leaves form the base of this salad, providing a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
• 1 large apple – Slice it into thin pieces to add a sweet and crunchy contrast to the salad.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese – Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
• 1/4 cup walnuts – Toasted walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and contribute healthy fats and protein.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Olive oil is a key component in the dressing, offering a smooth texture and a healthy fat source.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup – This natural sweetener adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – The Dijon mustard brings a mild, tangy heat to the dressing, balancing the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Apple cider vinegar adds acidity to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad.
• Salt and pepper – A pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper will bring all the flavors together and elevate the salad.

These ingredients combine to create a vibrant, nutrient-packed salad that is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.

Directions: How to Make Apple and Baby Spinach Salad

Follow these simple directions to make a refreshing and nutritious Apple and Baby Spinach Salad:

Step 1: Make the Dressing

The dressing is what brings all the ingredients together, making each bite burst with flavor. Start by whisking together the following ingredients in a small bowl:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. The olive oil will provide a silky texture, while the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar will balance the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

Now it’s time to prepare the salad itself. In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• 4 cups baby spinach – Fresh spinach leaves provide a nutrient-rich base full of iron, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• 1 large apple – Slice the apple into thin pieces or wedges. The apple adds a crisp, sweet texture to the salad.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese – Crumble the feta cheese over the salad. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the apple.
• 1/4 cup walnuts – Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan or oven to bring out their nutty flavor. Chop them into smaller pieces if desired.

These ingredients combine to form a colorful, flavorful, and nutrient-packed salad.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

Once your ingredients are prepared, drizzle the maple Dijon dressing over the salad. Toss everything together gently to ensure that the dressing evenly coats the spinach, apples, feta, and walnuts.

Serve immediately for the freshest experience. The salad is best enjoyed when the ingredients are crisp and fresh, making it a great option for a light lunch or dinner.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

This salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy days when you need a healthy meal in no time.

Nutritional Information: Calories per Serving

The Apple and Baby Spinach Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Maple Dijon Dressing is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Below is an approximate breakdown of the calories per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories per serving: ~250-300 kcal

This calorie count makes the salad a great option for a light meal or side dish that won’t leave you feeling overly full, but still provides plenty of nutrients.

Tips for the Perfect Apple and Baby Spinach Salad

• Choose the right apple: For the best balance of sweetness and crunch, use a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala.
• Toast the walnuts: Toasting walnuts brings out their natural flavors and adds an extra layer of crunch. You can do this quickly in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes.
• Add extra toppings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings, such as cranberries, sunflower seeds, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, to enhance the flavor of the salad.
• Make ahead: If you’re making the salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately to prevent the spinach from wilting. Dress the salad just before serving.

Health Benefits of Apple and Baby Spinach Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Maple Dijon Dressing

This salad is not only delicious but also provides numerous health benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants: Baby spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with other antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Good source of fiber: The apple provides a healthy dose of fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full longer.
• Healthy fats: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Calcium and protein: Feta cheese adds a good amount of protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.

This salad is a great way to fuel your body with nutrients while enjoying a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

The Apple and Baby Spinach Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Maple Dijon Dressing is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a fresh side dish for dinner, or a satisfying snack, this salad offers a burst of flavors and nutrients. The combination of sweet apples, savory feta, crunchy walnuts, and tangy maple Dijon dressing makes for a delightful and wholesome salad. Enjoy it as a quick meal or serve it at your next gathering for a healthy and tasty treat.