Name: Winter Spinach Salad with Apple and Crispy Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7 oz (200g) spinach; 1 red delicious apple (thinly sliced); 4.5 oz (130g) gorgonzola (at room temperature); 1/2 pomegranate (arils removed); 5.2 oz (150g) streaky bacon or pancetta strips (approximately 2 slices per person); 5 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup (80g) walnut halves; 3 tbsp sugar; 1/4 tsp chilli flakes (red pepper flakes); 1/4 tsp paprika; 1 oz (30g) butter; Pinch of salt

Winter Spinach Salad with apple, gorgonzola, candied walnuts, and crispy bacon is a delightful twist on traditional winter salads. This hearty dish combines fresh spinach with the sweetness of apples and the richness of gorgonzola cheese. The candied walnuts add a delightful crunch, while crispy bacon brings in savory notes that make this salad truly compelling. Perfect as a light lunch or a festive side dish, this winter spinach salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Winter Spinach Salad with

This winter spinach salad with its vibrant colors and flavors brings joy to any table. Here are six reasons to love this recipe: it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy winter spinach salad; it’s easy to prepare, taking only 25 minutes; the ingredients are seasonal, featuring fresh fruits and nuts; it offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors; it’s gluten-free, accommodating various diets; and it’s perfect for festive gatherings or casual meals alike. With so many fresh spinach salad ideas, this salad stands out as a seasonal favorite.

Winter Spinach Salad with Apple and Crispy Bacon - Winter Spinach Salad with - main visual representation

Ingredients for Winter Spinach Salad with

Gather these items:

7 oz (200g) spinach
1 red delicious apple (thinly sliced)
4.5 oz (130g) gorgonzola (at room temperature)
1/2 pomegranate (arils removed)
5.2 oz (150g) streaky bacon or pancetta strips (approximately 2 slices per person)
5 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup (80g) walnut halves
3 tbsp sugar
1/4 tsp chilli flakes (red pepper flakes)
1/4 tsp paprika
1 oz (30g) butter
Pinch of salt

How to Make Winter Spinach Salad with Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small pan, combine walnut halves, sugar, chilli flakes, paprika, a pinch of salt, and butter. Heat gently for about 2 minutes while stirring to coat the walnuts well. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
Step 2: Transfer the coated walnuts onto a sheet of baking paper, spreading them out to cool and harden.
Step 3: Cook the bacon or pancetta strips under a hot grill until crispy. Drain on kitchen paper.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add half of the gorgonzola and mash it into the dressing.
Step 5: Add the fresh spinach to the dressing, tossing gently until coated.
Step 6: Divide the spinach into serving bowls. Top each with slices of apple, remaining gorgonzola, pomegranate arils, crispy bacon, and the cooled candied walnuts.
Step 7: Finish with a grinding of black pepper and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Winter Spinach Salad with

Keep these in mind:

Best served fresh for optimal texture.
You can substitute pancetta with bacon if preferred.
Consider adding roasted vegetables for a warm spinach salad for winter months.
Use seasonal ingredients for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Winter Spinach Salad with

This spinach salad for winter pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or seafood. It also makes an excellent side for holiday meals, complementing rich dishes beautifully. For a heartier option, serve it alongside whole grain bread or as a base for a warm protein like grilled salmon.

How to Store and Reheat Winter Spinach Salad with

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain texture, avoid mixing the dressing in until you’re ready to serve. This nutritious winter spinach salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance for easy assembly later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Spinach Salad with

What is a winter spinach salad?

A winter spinach salad typically includes fresh spinach, seasonal fruits, and nuts, making it a nutritious choice. This recipe combines spinach with apple, gorgonzola, and candied walnuts.

Can I make winter spinach salad with ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients separately and mix them just before serving. This keeps the spinach fresh and prevents sogginess.

How do I avoid common mistakes with winter spinach salad with?

To avoid sogginess, mix the dressing only when ready to serve and keep the components separate until then. Using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and texture.

Variations of Winter Spinach Salad with You Can Try

Consider these delicious variations to keep things interesting: add roasted vegetables for warmth, try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese, or incorporate citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits for a fresh twist. Each variation enhances this seasonal spinach salad recipe while staying true to its winter essence.

For more information on the health benefits of spinach, check out this Healthline article. If you’re looking for more salad ideas, visit this page for inspiration. You can also explore other recipes that use seasonal ingredients.