Indian Spinach Salad
A vibrant Indian-inspired spinach salad with crunchy peanuts, sweet raisins, and a tangy chutney dressing, perfect for a refreshing, flavorful side or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a screw-top jar, combine white wine vinegar, salad oil, chopped chutney, salt, curry powder, and dry mustard.
- Cover and chill the dressing.
- Place torn fresh spinach in a large salad bowl.
- Add chopped unpared apple, light raisins, peanuts, and sliced green onions to the spinach.
- Shake the dressing well and pour over the salad.
- Toss the salad to combine and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider adding diced cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch. You can substitute the peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit them for a nut-free option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. Using homemade Fresh Mango Chutney can elevate the flavors even more. Make sure to use fresh spinach for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Indian Spinach Salad is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with Shereens' Eggplant Curry or Indian Spiced Beans for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. A light, refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea complements the salad perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the spinach may wilt over time. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If you need to reheat any part of the salad, do so gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the spinach.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Indian Spinach Salad contains roughly 838 calories, with 11g protein, 198g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), potassium (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 714mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is recommended for its texture and flavor, you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the salad. However, keep in mind that the salad may lose some of its crunch.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad can be prepared in advance. To keep it fresh, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. Assemble the salad without dressing and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, simply shake the dressing and add it just before serving for the best taste.
What can I add to make this salad heartier?
To create a heartier salad, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber. You can also include diced avocado for creaminess. These additions will not only enhance the nutrition but also make the salad more filling and satisfying.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).