Salad with young spinach, tomatoes, and cucumber

Fresh salad with baby spinach, tomatoes, and cheese – an explosion of flavors and nutrients

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

Recipe introduction

This salad with baby spinach, tomatoes, and cheese is a perfect choice for warm days or when you need a quick yet flavorful lunch. With simple and fresh ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a perfect mix of textures and tastes. The delicate leaves of baby spinach combine wonderfully with juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese, while the dressing adds a vibrant note.

A brief story about salad

Salads have been part of human cuisine for millennia, serving not only as a way to consume vegetables but also as a symbol of health and vitality. Spinach, native to Persia, was brought to Europe in the Middle Ages and quickly became popular due to its nutritional value. Combined with tomatoes, which are rich in vitamins C and A, and cheese, an excellent source of protein, this salad becomes not only a delicious choice but also a true superfood.

Ingredients

- A handful of baby spinach
- One large tomato (or 5-6 cherry tomatoes)
- 40-50 g of cow's milk cheese

For the dressing:

- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of orange or tangerine juice
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the baby spinach thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Then, drain it well and place it in a large salad bowl. Baby spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, having a more delicate taste compared to mature spinach.

2. Cutting the tomatoes
If using a large tomato, cut it into medium-sized cubes. If you prefer cherry tomatoes, cut them in half. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health and protects the skin.

3. Adding the cheese
Cut the cheese into small cubes so that it easily integrates into the salad. The cheese adds a creamy texture and a flavor note that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

4. Preparing the dressing
In a small jar, add the olive oil, lemon juice, and orange juice. Cover the jar with a lid and shake well to emulsify the ingredients. The lemon and orange dressing adds a fresh and fruity note, perfect for summer.

5. Assembling the salad
Toss the tomatoes and cheese over the spinach in the prepared bowl. Pour the dressing on top and gently mix, being careful not to crush the ingredients. Taste the salad and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Serving
Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. You can also add some pumpkin seeds or nuts for extra crunch, or even a few fresh basil leaves for a special flavor.

Useful tips and variations

- Ingredient sourcing: Use seasonal ingredients for the best flavors. Spinach, tomatoes, and cheese can be found at local markets, where you can also support local farmers.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables like cucumbers or julienned carrots. Additionally, substitute the cheese with feta or mozzarella for another dimension of flavor.
- Pairings: This salad pairs perfectly with a portion of grilled fish or rotisserie chicken. Accompany it with a glass of lemonade or a dry white wine for a perfect summer meal.

Nutritional information

This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Baby spinach contains iron, calcium, vitamins K, A, and C, while tomatoes are excellent sources of antioxidants. The cheese provides the necessary proteins for a balanced diet. A serving of this salad has about 150-200 calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen spinach?
It is better to use fresh spinach, as the texture and taste will be much more pleasant. Frozen spinach is usually softer and will not provide the same crunchiness.

- What other dressings can I use?
You can experiment with yogurt or tahini-based dressings, which add a creamy and healthy note.

- How can I store the salad for the next day?
It is recommended to keep the dressing separate and add it only before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

In conclusion, this salad with baby spinach, tomatoes, and cheese is a simple yet sophisticated choice that can be adapted according to your preferences. Enjoy every bite and savor the benefits offered by fresh ingredients!