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Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 84 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.