Name: Fresh Spinach and Walnut Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 8 cups baby spinach; 1 cup walnuts; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup shaved parmesan; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp honey

2Instructions

Quick Summary

This vibrant spinach and walnut salad is a nutrient-dense dish featuring baby spinach, toasted walnuts, shaved parmesan, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It takes less than 15 minutes to prepare and is perfect for a quick, healthy lunch.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 cups fresh baby spinach, washed
1 cup walnuts, lightly toasted
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shaved
1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)

For the Dressing

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp honey
Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation Method

1. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Whisk the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
3. Place the spinach in a large bowl. Add the onion, cooled walnuts, and cranberries.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Top with shaved parmesan before serving.

Stewart's Secret

For the best texture, wait until the very last second to toss the dressing. Spinach leaves are delicate and will wilt quickly once they touch the acidity of the vinegar.

Nutrition Snapshot

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	310
Total Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	18g
Protein	9g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

It is best served fresh. You can toast the nuts and mix the dressing hours ahead, but keep the greens separate until serving.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

Pecans or toasted almonds work beautifully if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile.

Is this salad vegan?

Simply omit the parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative to make this dish entirely vegan.

Fresh Spinach and Walnut Salad with Balsamic Glaze

The Story

1Ingredients

2Instructions

Quick Summary

Ingredients

For the Salad

For the Dressing

Preparation Method

Stewart's Secret

Nutrition Snapshot

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

What can I use instead of walnuts?

Is this salad vegan?

Nutrition Information

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