Apple Spinach Salad with Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing
Every time I make this Apple Spinach Salad with Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing, it takes me back to sunlit afternoons spent in my grandmother's garden. I remember the vibrant greens of the spinach, the crisp bite of fresh apples, and the sweet-tangy dressing she whipped up in her cozy kitchen. She always said that a good salad is like a hug on a plate—nourishing and comforting. I think you’ll agree that once you try this salad, it’ll become a staple in your home just like it is in mine!
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This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also full of nutrients that you can feel good about serving to your family. It serves as a perfect side dish for dinner or a light lunch. The combination of fresh spinach and apples makes it colorful and delightful, and I promise, your family will keep asking for more. So, roll up your sleeves, and let's dive into crafting this lovely bowl of goodness!
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How to Make Apple Spinach Salad with Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing
Ingredients
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Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Fresh spinach | 4 cups |
Apple (cored and thinly sliced) | 1 large |
Walnuts or pecans (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
Feta cheese | 1/4 cup (optional) |
Red onion | 1/4 (thinly sliced, optional) |
Honey | 3 tablespoons |
Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons |
Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
Salt and pepper | to taste |
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary to my salads—it gives them a lovely aroma and an extra layer of flavor! Feel free to play around with different nuts or cheese based on what you have available or what you and your family enjoy.
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Cooking Steps
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1. Prepare the Dressing
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In a small bowl, start by whisking together honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Trust me, this dressing is the heart of the salad! It brings everything together beautifully. Give it a taste and adjust the honey or mustard according to your preference.
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2. Select the Spinach
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While your dressing is coming together, grab your fresh spinach. I usually opt for young spinach since it’s tender and has a delicate flavor. Wash it thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth.
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3. Slice the Apple
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Next, take your apple and slice it thinly. I prefer to leave the skin on for added nutrition and color, but you can peel it if that's your preference. Choose a variety that you enjoy—sweet, crisp apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work wonderfully in this salad!
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4. Chop the Nuts
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Grab your walnuts or pecans and coarsely chop them. I love the crunch they add to the salad. If you want a deeper flavor, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they become fragrant.
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5. Combine Ingredients
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In a large mixing bowl, add the spinach, apple slices, and chopped nuts. If you’re feeling particularly fancy today, toss in some crumbled feta cheese and thinly sliced red onion for some extra flavor and color.
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6. Drizzle the Dressing
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Now it’s time for the dressing! Drizzle your prepared honey-mustard lemon dressing over the salad. As you do this, I suggest you think about how amazing this salad will taste. It’s such a colorful dish and looks beautiful on any table!
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7. Toss Gently
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Use clean hands or salad tongs to toss everything together gently. You want the leaves to be coated but not bruised. The colors will blend together, making the salad look even more appetizing.
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8. Taste and Adjust
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Give it a taste. Does it need more salt, pepper, or a drizzle more of that delightful dressing? Perhaps a squeeze of extra lemon juice if you enjoy a tangy kick? Adjust according to your liking.
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9. Serve Immediately
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This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right away. It makes a gorgeous centerpiece on any dining table!
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Why I Love Making This Dish
This Apple Spinach Salad with Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing holds a special place in my heart. It not only brings health to our table, but it also ignites nostalgia. My family adores it. They can’t get enough of the sweet and tangy notes woven throughout each bite. Seeing my loved ones enjoy a dish I made from scratch fills me with joy.
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What’s truly special is the simplicity of this dish. It comes together so quickly! I love that it doesn’t require long hours in the kitchen. A simple leafy green salad has the power to brighten up any meal and brings vibrancy to our dinner plates. You’ll find yourself making this salad again and again!
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What You’ll Need
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For this recipe, you don’t need anything fancy. A good mixing bowl and whisk are perfect for preparing the dressing. An excellent sharp knife and cutting board will make slicing the apple and chopping the onions and nuts a breeze. If you don’t have one, a salad bowl for serving will also do.
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Step-by-Step Guide
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- Prepare the dressing in a small bowl. Make sure to give it a good whisk.
- Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly before adding it to a mixing bowl.
- Slice your apple and chop your nuts. Feel free to get your family involved—kids love to help in the kitchen!
- Add everything together in the bowl and don’t forget to toss in the feta and red onions if you choose to use them.
- Drizzle the dressing and gently mix everything together.
- Taste and adjust, making it perfect for your palette.
- Serve and enjoy right away!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Fresh Ingredients: Always try to use fresh ingredients. The taste is incredibly better than anything pre-packaged!
- Adjust the Dressing: Experiment with the amount of honey and mustard in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.
- Make it a Meal: Toss in cooked chicken or quinoa for a heartier dish if you like! This salad can be your complete meal if you add some protein.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon. Other delightful sides could include roasted vegetables or a warm piece of crusty bread. For dressing options, consider a light vinaigrette to complement the salad, but it’s already fantastic on its own!
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Leftovers
Should you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing may wilt the spinach, so I usually store the dressing separately if I plan on saving some for later. Simply drizzle more dressing over when you’re ready to enjoy again.
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I find joy in having a delicious, healthy option waiting for me in the fridge!
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FAQ Section
Can I use different types of nuts?
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Yes! You can use any nuts you prefer. Almonds or pistachios would be lovely substitutions.
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What kind of apples work best in this salad?
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I typically use crisp, sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp, but you can experiment with tart apples like Granny Smith for a contrast.
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Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
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Absolutely! The dressing can be made up to a week in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using.
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How long will leftovers last?
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The salad is best when fresh—typically, I’d say it lasts about 2 days in the fridge, but keep in mind the spinach may become a bit wilted.
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Conclusion
This Apple Spinach Salad with Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing has become a cherished recipe in my home. I’m genuinely excited for you to try it out. The flavors blend together beautifully, and I promise it will become a favorite for you and your family, too!
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I can't wait to hear how much you loved it, and if you have any special twists of your own! Cooking is such a joy, and I hope this dish brings warmth and happiness to your kitchen just as it does to mine. Happy cooking, friends!
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