Spinach salad

Fresh spinach salad with feta cheese – an explosion of flavors and nutrients

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t appreciate a fresh salad, packed with vitamins and flavor? The spinach salad with feta cheese is a light dish, perfect for quick lunches or as a healthy side for dinner. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the crisp texture of vegetables with the creaminess of feta cheese, offering a vibrant and comforting culinary experience.

History of spinach salad

Spinach has been used in traditional cuisine for centuries, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, often associated with a healthy lifestyle. Feta cheese, on the other hand, adds a savory element and is a versatile ingredient that enhances many dishes. The combination of spinach and feta cheese is a classic choice that inspires a feeling of freshness and joy.

Ingredients

- 250 grams fresh spinach
- 3 medium cucumbers
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 100 grams stuffed olives
- 150 grams feta cheese
- 1 pack Knorr Greek Salad Dressing
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for an intense flavor)

Ingredient details

- Spinach: Choose fresh leaves, free of spots or yellowing. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, making it an excellent ally for bone health and the immune system.
- Cucumber: Opt for crunchy cucumbers with green skin. They add a refreshing note and a high water content, ideal for hydration.
- Bell pepper: The color of the bell pepper not only provides a pleasant appearance but also a source of vitamin C, important for skin health and the immune system.
- Olives: Choose stuffed olives to add an extra burst of flavor and a slightly spicy taste.
- Feta cheese: This adds a creamy note and a salty flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients. If you want a healthier option, you can opt for light feta cheese.
- Dressing: Knorr Greek Salad Dressing is a quick and convenient choice that adds a touch of intensity to the salad.

Preparation technique

1. Washing the spinach: Start by washing the spinach thoroughly under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Once clean, tear the leaves into thin strips to make them easier to chew.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. I recommend using a sharp knife to achieve even cuts. The bell pepper should be cut into julienne strips, adding a splash of color and a crunchy texture.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the spinach, cucumbers, bell pepper, and sliced olives. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine without crushing the spinach.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a separate container, follow the instructions on the Knorr dressing package, mixing it with water and olive oil. The olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also provides healthy fats.

5. Finishing the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Finally, add the feta cheese, crumbled into larger pieces to provide a pleasant contrast of textures.

Serving suggestions

This salad is perfect as a main dish on a warm day or as a side with grilled fish or chicken. You can also add some toasted nuts for an extra crunch and nutrients. Additionally, a slice of toasted bread with olive oil and garlic would pair wonderfully with the salad.

Possible variations

- For a vegetarian salad: You can add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to turn the salad into a hearty main dish.
- For a more intense flavor: Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or add some slices of avocado for a creamy texture and rich taste.
- Seasonal additions: Depending on the season, you can experiment with other crunchy vegetables, such as carrots or radishes.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach?
It is not recommended, as fresh spinach offers a much better texture and flavor in this salad.

2. How can I store the salad for the next day?
It is recommended to keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent the ingredients from getting soggy.

3. Can the salad be vegan?
Yes, you can replace feta cheese with tofu or an avocado-based dressing to make the salad vegan.

Nutritional benefits

This spinach salad with feta cheese is not only delicious but also very healthy. It contains antioxidants, essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. The calories are low, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

In conclusion, spinach salad with feta cheese is a simple, quick recipe packed with vitamins, perfect for any occasion. Invest a few minutes in preparing this salad, and you will discover an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds! Enjoy!