If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and irresistibly flavorful dish, this Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together crisp spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tender carrot slices, all tied together with a luscious homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Every bite bursts with freshness and a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes, making it a go-to salad whether you want a light lunch or a stunning side dish for dinner. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up and beautiful to serve!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe thrives on simplicity and quality. Each ingredient plays its own starring role by adding distinct texture, bright color, or a fresh punch of flavor that complements the vinaigrette perfectly.
- Spinach (4-5 oz): Choose fresh, tender leaves that will give your salad a vibrant green base full of nutrients and a delicate bite.
- Cucumbers (2 small or 1/2 English): Their crispness adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness of the spinach.
- Grape or Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor, these add a lovely pop of color and natural sweetness.
- Carrot (1 medium): Thinly sliced to add just the right amount of subtle earthiness and a pleasant crunch.
- Shaved Parmesan cheese: Its salty, nutty richness elevates the salad with indulgent depth and a touch of luxury.
- Balsamic vinegar (2 Tbsp): The star of the vinaigrette, delivering tangy brightness and a hint of sweetness.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 Tbsp): Smooth and fruity, it helps mellow the vinegar and brings everything together with a silky finish.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Pepper (1/4 tsp or to taste): Adds a subtle spicy kick that rounds out the dressing beautifully.
How to Make Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by thoroughly rinsing your fresh spinach under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel, dry the leaves well—wet greens will dilute your dressing and make the salad soggy. Transfer those vibrant, crisp leaves into a large salad bowl, which will give you plenty of room for tossing later.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Next, slice your cucumbers into thin rounds for a light, crunchy texture. Peel and thinly slice one medium carrot to add a subtle sweet earthiness and delightful crunch throughout the salad. Halve the grape or cherry tomatoes so their juicy interior complements the other ingredients. Toss all the sliced veggies into the bowl with your spinach and gently mix to blend the colors and textures.
Step 3: Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything briskly until the vinaigrette becomes smooth and emulsified. This harmonious mix will add tang, richness, and a hint of spice to your salad, bringing out the best in every fresh bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Finish
Drizzle your freshly made vinaigrette over the mixed salad greens and vegetables. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every leaf gets kissed by the dressing. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of shaved Parmesan cheese on top, adding its salty, nutty kick that elevates the whole dish from simple to spectacular. Serve immediately, and enjoy the beautiful medley of flavors and textures!
How to Serve Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider garnishing your salad with toasted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for crunch, or sprinkle fresh herbs such as basil or mint to brighten the dish. A few slices of ripe avocado add creaminess and make it more filling.
Side Dishes
This spinach salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Try it alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or a light pasta dish. It also complements a crusty piece of garlic bread or some cheesy flatbreads perfectly, turning your meal into a satisfying, well-rounded feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe in individual glass bowls to show off the layers of bright veggies and cheese. Alternatively, pile it high on a rustic wooden platter for a casual gathering or family-style meal—either way, it’s guaranteed to catch everyone’s eye and appetite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately for best freshness—keep the spinach and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge, and the vinaigrette in a sealed jar. Combine just before serving to keep the greens crisp and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad or vinaigrette because the fresh spinach and tomatoes lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing, and the dressing can separate.
Reheating
This salad is best served fresh and cool. There is no need or recommendation to reheat, as it shines brightest when the vegetables are crisp and the dressing is fresh.
FAQs
Can I use baby spinach instead of regular spinach?
Absolutely! Baby spinach works wonderfully in this Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe, offering a more delicate texture and flavor that some prefer. Just make sure it’s well washed and dried.
Can I add protein to make this salad a complete meal?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make fantastic additions to boost protein and turn your salad into a hearty lunch or dinner. They also complement the freshness of the vinaigrette nicely.
Is there a way to make the vinaigrette sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter vinaigrette, adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup during whisking balances out the tanginess without overpowering the fresh flavors.
How long does the dressing keep?
Once made, the balsamic vinaigrette can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to one week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as natural separation can occur.
Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with another type of vinegar?
You can, but balsamic vinegar is special for this recipe due to its balanced tang and slight sweetness. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be alternatives but will give a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a harmonious, flavorful way. Whether you’re craving a light meal or a stunning side dish, it’s guaranteed to impress your taste buds and become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you may just find your new favorite salad!
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Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant spinach salad featuring crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced carrots, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette and topped with shaved parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a light meal or a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4–5 oz Spinach (rinsed and dried)
- 2 small cucumbers or 1/2 English cucumber
- 1 cup Grape or Cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 medium Carrot (thinly sliced)
- Shaved parmesan cheese (to taste)
Dressing
- 2 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: Rinse and dry your spinach thoroughly. Once dry, transfer it to a large salad bowl to form the base of your salad.
- Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the cucumbers and carrot. Halve the grape or cherry tomatoes. Add all these sliced vegetables to the salad bowl with the spinach, gently tossing to combine.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Whisk briskly or shake well until the ingredients are fully emulsified into a smooth dressing.
- Assemble the salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Sprinkle the top with shaved parmesan cheese to add a savory, creamy element. Toss lightly if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, high-quality spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes.
- You can substitute parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative to make this salad vegan-friendly.
- If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the vinaigrette.
- This salad is best served fresh as the spinach can wilt if left too long with the dressing.
