Spinach Salad With Roasted Peanuts
A fresh spinach salad topped with roasted peanuts and crisp apples, tossed in a tangy dressing, perfect for light lunches or healthy dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- For dressing, combine peanut oil, red wine vinegar, lite soy sauce, honey mustard, and dill weed in a jar.
- Shake well to mix the dressing.
- In a large bowl, add washed spinach leaves.
- Add diced apples to the spinach.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Sprinkle dry roasted peanuts and grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider adding Greek yogurt or avocado to the mixture. If you're out of dill weed, fresh dill or even a hint of basil can work well. Use mixed nuts instead of peanuts for added texture and flavor. Ensure the spinach is thoroughly washed and dried to avoid a soggy salad. This dish can also be served as a side for grilled chicken, making it a versatile choice.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside other light dishes, such as a bowl of Garden Vegetable Medley(Microwave) or a slice of Zucchini Bread(Makes 2 Large Loaves Or 4 Small Loaves) for a refreshing lunch. For an added crunch, serve with toasted breadsticks or pita chips.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the spinach from wilting. If you need to reheat any components, like leftover apples, do so gently in a microwave to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Salad With Roasted Peanuts contains roughly 1482 calories, with 51g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value), protein (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2832mg per serving (123% 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 the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just shake it well before using, as the ingredients may separate. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of your salad.
What can I substitute for spinach?
If you're not a fan of spinach, you can use kale, arugula, or mixed greens as a base. Each option will provide a different flavor and texture, but they all work well with the dressing and additional ingredients in this salad.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach, apples, and dressing separately and combine them just before serving. This ensures your salad remains fresh and crisp, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or packed lunches.
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).