Jeanne'S Spinach Salad
A vibrant spinach salad with crunchy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette, perfect for a light, flavorful meal or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Slice the fresh mushrooms and chop the onion, green pepper, and celery.
- In a bowl, combine the wine vinegar, ketchup, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and oil to make the dressing.
- Add grated carrot or any other vegetables you like to the dressing if desired.
- In a large salad bowl, combine raw spinach and iceberg lettuce.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, green pepper, and chopped celery to the greens.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the iceberg lettuce with arugula or mixed greens. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can save time. For a tangier dressing, try using apple cider vinegar instead of wine vinegar. You can also add grated carrots or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light lunch or a side dish alongside grilled chicken or pork recipes. It pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes like Easy Meal Baked Pork Chops or Blackeyed Peas, Tomatoes, Bacon for a balanced meal. Consider topping with additional vegetables or nuts for extra texture.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate in airtight containers. The salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, while the dressing can last about a week. When ready to serve, toss the salad with the dressing to refresh its flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jeanne'S Spinach Salad contains roughly 131 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
What other ingredients can I add to this salad?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like diced avocados, shredded carrots, or even grilled chicken for added protein. This salad is versatile and can accommodate various vegetables according to your preference.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a similar texture. You can also enhance the flavor with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
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).