Spinach and Feta Salad

Prep Time: 10 min	Cook Time: 0 min
Total Time: 10 min	Servings: 1

Introduction

Discover a fresh and delightful dining experience with our Spinach and Feta Salad recipe. This vibrant dish combines the goodness of fresh spinach, creamy feta cheese, crisp cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Ideal for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, this versatile recipe allows for endless customization with a variety of optional ingredients and can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or a flavorful side dish.

Health Benefits

Iron-Rich Spinach: Spinach delivers an abundance of iron, vitamins, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and maintaining optimal energy levels.
Calcium-Packed Feta Cheese: Feta cheese offers calcium and protein, promoting bone health and satiety.
Hydrating Cucumber: Cucumber provides hydration and fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting healthy skin.
Nutrient-Dense Tomatoes: Tomatoes offer a rich source of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Savor a revitalizing and nutritious Spinach and Feta Salad that's perfect for any occasion. Personalize this versatile recipe with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and toppings, and enjoy a wholesome meal that aligns with your health goals and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
½ cucumber, sliced
¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette

Optional Additions

1 tablespoon chopped red onion
¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 tablespoon sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
1 small avocado, sliced
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (e.g., basil, parsley, mint), chopped
½ bell pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon pine nuts or chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon dried cranberries or raisins
¼ cup quinoa or farro, cooked
1 boiled egg, sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground black pepper or red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Wash and dry the spinach and cherry tomatoes. Slice the cucumber and any additional vegetables you plan to use. Crumble the feta cheese.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, crumbled feta, sliced cucumber, and halved cherry tomatoes. If using, add any optional ingredients like chopped red onion, sliced olives, or cooked quinoa.

Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the salad. If desired, add a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.

Toss to Coat:

Gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix to maintain the integrity of the ingredients, especially the more delicate ones like avocado slices or crumbled feta.

Serve:

Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing and nutritious lunch. Garnish with additional toppings like sunflower seeds, chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of whole grain bread or a small soup: For a more filling meal.
Serve with a glass of iced tea or infused water: For a refreshing and light beverage.
Top with a handful of nuts or seeds: For extra protein and healthy fats.

Tips and Variations

For a lower-calorie option: Use less feta or opt for a low-fat version, and reduce the amount of dressing.
To make it more filling: Add a protein source like cooked quinoa or a boiled egg.
For added flavor: Marinate the tomatoes in a bit of olive oil and balsamic vinegar before adding them to the salad.