Spinach salad

Fresh and Vibrant Spinach Salad

Who doesn't love a fresh salad, packed with nutrients and vibrant colors? Spinach salad is not only a healthy choice but also a true feast for the senses. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for warm days when we want to cool down while enjoying a flavorful dish. Additionally, it provides an excellent opportunity to experiment with various ingredients, giving you the freedom to create a salad that reflects your personal tastes.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 bowl of fresh spinach (approximately 200g)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow, for color and sweetness)
- 1 green onion (including the green tops)
- 1 medium white onion
- 2 cucumbers (preferably a crunchy variety)
- A handful of fresh lamb's quarters (optional but recommended)
- A handful of chickweed or wild garlic (for a subtle garlic flavor)
- 100g aged sheep cheese (or feta cheese, if you prefer)
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Extra virgin olive oil (about 3-4 tablespoons)
- Balsamic or apple cider vinegar (1-2 tablespoons, to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Wash and prepare the ingredients
Start by thoroughly washing all the ingredients under a stream of cold water. Ensure that the spinach, lamb's quarters, and other vegetables are free from impurities. Drain them well to avoid excess water in the salad.

2. Cut the vegetables
Slice the white onion into thin rings, the bell pepper into julienne strips, and the cucumbers into thin slices. Grate the carrot on a large grater to add crunch. Chop the green onion finely, including the green tops, and finely chop the parsley.

3. Add the greens
In a large bowl, add the spinach, lamb's quarters, chickweed (or wild garlic), and all the cut vegetables. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

4. Cheese and seasonings
At this point, add the finely grated sheep cheese. If you don't have sheep cheese, feta cheese is an excellent alternative. Sprinkle salt (if needed) and vinegar over the salad. Mix again.

5. Finish with olive oil
To avoid compromising the texture and taste of the salad, add the olive oil at the end. This will help emulsify the ingredients and add a rich flavor. Gently mix, being careful not to crush the vegetables.

Practical Tips

- Caring for spinach: Choose fresh spinach with deep green leaves. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves, as they can affect the taste of the salad.
- Variations: You can also add other ingredients such as nuts, sunflower seeds, or even fruits like apples or pears for a sweet contrast.
- Serving: This salad can be served as a main dish alongside grilled meat or as a side for fish. You can pair it with fresh lemonade or a glass of mint-infused water.
- Nutrition: Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron, making it a staple in a healthy diet. Carrots add a boost of beta-carotene, while the cheese provides protein and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen spinach? It is not recommended, as the texture will be affected. Fresh spinach offers a crispness that frozen cannot replace.
- What other dressings can I use? You can experiment with a yogurt-based dressing or a simple vinaigrette made with mustard, honey, and vinegar.
- How can I store the salad? It is best to consume the salad immediately after preparation to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a day.

A Personal Note

This spinach salad reminds me of summers spent around the table, when family gathers to enjoy simple yet flavorful dishes. A single bite brings back the joy of warm days, and the vibrant colors of the vegetables delight the eye. Add a sprinkle of love to every salad you make, and the result will always be delicious!

Now, prepare your ingredients and let yourself be carried away by the flavors and colors of this spinach salad! It’s a simple, quick, and healthy recipe, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!