Spinach Salad With Oranges And Peanuts
A vibrant spinach salad with sweet oranges, crunchy peanuts, and crispy bacon, perfect for a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean the spinach and tear into bite-size pieces.
- Peel, pith, and section the oranges or drain the mandarin oranges if using canned.
- Crush the salted peanuts in a plastic bag with a rolling pin.
- Fry the bacon until crispy and crumble into small pieces.
- Combine the spinach, oranges, peanuts, and bacon in a large glass bowl.
- Toss with bottled Catalina dressing until just coated.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant salad, use fresh oranges instead of canned for better flavor and texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider substituting turkey bacon for traditional bacon. You can also add other nuts like sliced almonds or walnuts for extra crunch. Pair this salad with a protein like grilled chicken for a more filling meal, or serve with Bacon And Cheese Biscuits for a comforting brunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Salad with Oranges and Peanuts is a refreshing addition to any meal. It pairs well with grilled proteins, making it a perfect side for dishes like Mom'S Pork Chops or even as an appetizer. Consider serving it alongside a light soup or as part of a buffet with other salads and finger foods for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be mindful that the dressing can cause the spinach to wilt, so it's best to keep dressing separate until ready to serve. If reheating, consider using a microwave at a low setting to warm the bacon without overcooking the spinach.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Salad With Oranges And Peanuts contains roughly 163 calories, with 9g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 482mg per serving (21% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to combine them and add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the spinach. Store the components separately in the fridge, and toss them together when you're ready to enjoy the salad.
What can I use instead of Catalina dressing?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider using a citrus vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing for a sweet and tangy twist. A light balsamic vinaigrette can also complement the oranges nicely. Just ensure the dressing you choose has a balance of acidity to enhance the salad's flavors.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the bacon and possibly adding a source of protein like chickpeas or grilled tofu. You might also want to enhance the flavor with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a bit of feta cheese for added creaminess.
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).