Easy Apple Feta Spinach Salad Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Looking for a simple yet satisfying dish to add to your dinner rotation? The Apple Feta Spinach Salad Recipe is your answer. This salad combines the crispness of fresh spinach, the sweetness of apples, and the tangy creaminess of feta, all brought together with a homemade maple vinaigrette. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet nutritious. Not only is this salad a crowd-pleaser, but it also serves as a great way to use up the last apples of the season, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Why Apple Feta Spinach Salad Is Great

This Apple Feta Spinach Salad is not just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional goodness. As a side dish, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, all while being light and refreshing. The crisp apples provide a sweet contrast to the savory feta, while the toasted pecans add crunch and depth. Dried cranberries introduce a burst of tangy sweetness, complementing the salad’s earthy base of spinach. The homemade maple vinaigrette ties everything together with its sweet and zesty notes without any unnecessary, funky ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light meal, this salad can fit seamlessly into any healthy diet.

Tips for Making Ahead

Preparing ahead is one of the best ways to streamline your meal prep. With these simple tips, you can have this Apple Feta Spinach Salad ready to serve in no time, even if you’re pressed for time.

Soaking Red Onions

Red onions can sometimes have a sharp, overpowering flavor. To tame their intensity, soak the thinly sliced onions in an ice water bath for about 10 minutes. This will soften their bite and make them more palatable without losing their crunch. After soaking, squeeze out the excess water using paper towels to remove any bitterness.

Preparing the Vinaigrette and Apples

The homemade vinaigrette is easy to make and can be prepared in advance. Simply whisk together the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake it up and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use. To prevent the apples from browning, chop them up and store them in the vinaigrette. This will preserve their crispness and ensure they stay fresh.

Toasting Pecans

Pecans are a key ingredient in this salad, and toasting them enhances their flavor and texture. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool before adding to the salad. Toasting your nuts ahead of time will give the salad a perfect crunch when served.

Strategic Assembly

When assembling your salad, layer the ingredients strategically. Start by placing the soaked and dried red onions at the bottom of the bowl. Add the spinach next, followed by the toasted pecans, crumbled feta, and cranberries. By keeping the ingredients separate, you can ensure each bite has the right balance of flavors and textures without the onions overpowering everything.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Salad

To create the ideal Apple Feta Spinach Salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 5 ounces fresh spinach or spring greens mix
• 2 small apples (cored and thinly sliced)
• ¼ of a red onion (thinly sliced, about ½ cup)
• ½ cup pecan halves (toasted)
• ⅔ cup feta crumbles
• ½ cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

• 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• A generous pinch of salt and black pepper

What Ingredients You Can Substitute in This Spinach Salad

One of the best parts of this Apple Feta Spinach Salad is its versatility. You can easily substitute ingredients depending on what you have on hand.

• If you don’t have baby spinach, try kale, arugula, or any other leafy greens in your fridge.
• Don’t have feta cheese? Soft cheeses like goat cheese, blue cheese, or brie make excellent substitutes, adding their own unique flavors to the salad.
• If apple cider vinegar isn’t available, balsamic vinegar is a great alternative that will add a rich, deep flavor to the dressing.
• Almonds can be swapped with walnuts or pecans for a slightly different texture and taste.
• For added protein, baked or grilled chicken is a perfect addition that pairs well with the salad.

How to make apple feta spinach salad Step-by-Step

1. Soak the Red Onion (Optional): If desired, soak the thinly sliced red onion in an ice water bath for about 10 minutes. This helps reduce the sharpness of the onion. After soaking, squeeze dry with paper towels.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, combine the spinach, thinly sliced apples, red onion, toasted pecans, feta cheese, and dried cranberries.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar, combine the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shake well to combine and create a smooth dressing.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated. Serve immediately or refrigerate if preparing ahead.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Apple Feta Spinach Salad

How to Keep the Salad Fresh for Meal Prep

If you’re preparing this Apple Feta Spinach Salad in advance, store the salad and dressing separately. This will keep the spinach crisp and prevent it from wilting. Add the dressing just before serving.

The Secret to a Crunchy Texture Every Time

To maintain that delightful crunch in the salad, be sure to toast the pecans and soak the onions. These little details will elevate the texture and ensure that every bite has the perfect crunch.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to personalize this salad by adding other fruits like pears or berries, or try different nuts and seeds such as sunflower seeds or slivered almonds. Customize it to your taste for a unique twist every time.

What to Serve With It

This salad pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired meals. Here are a few serving suggestions to create a balanced meal:

• Greek Chicken and Lemon Rice
• Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe
• Carrot Raisin Salad Recipe

Health Benefits of Apple Feta Spinach Salad

Why Spinach is a Superfood You Should Include in Every Meal

Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. This leafy green is also rich in antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and support overall health.

The Nutritional Value of Apples and Feta in Your Diet

Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Combined with the protein-packed feta, this salad provides a balanced and nutritious meal or side dish that’s light but satisfying.

A Light Yet Satisfying Meal for All Dietary Needs

This Apple Feta Spinach Salad is perfect for a variety of dietary needs. It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and easily adaptable for those looking to add more protein or lower their carb intake.

Conclusion

With its refreshing combination of sweet apples, creamy feta, and crunchy pecans, the Apple Feta Spinach Salad is a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or making it ahead for a party, this salad is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite ingredients and create your own variations. Embrace the creativity this salad offers, and enjoy its bright, zesty flavors every time you make it.