Name: Plum Spinach Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 5 oz fresh spinach; 2 cups plum halves; 0.25 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special. What is a Plum Spinach Salad? Is this a flavor explosion that is ridiculously easy to throw together? Is it like a Caprese salad decided to go on vacation and bring back all the best plum orchards? My grandma used to make something similar with peaches, but honestly, the plums just *sing* in this recipe. The sweetness of the plums, the earthy spinach, and the salty cheese – it’s a symphony, I tell you! Is there a way to try something new?

What is a Plum Spinach Salad?

Think of it as a celebration of summer’s bounty, all tossed together in one bowl. Is it a spinach salad? I love goat cheese, some toasted nuts, and a bright, tangy vinaigrette. The name pretty much says it all! Is this the kind of salad you can whip up in minutes, using ingredients you probably already have on hand? I love how simple yet sophisticated it tastes. What are some good Side Dishes to serve at a barbecue, or even at dinner party? Is it possible to make your own edible flowers?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to eat a Plum Spinach Salad? The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy is utterly addictive. The plums are juicy and bursting with flavor, the spinach adds a lovely earthiness, and the cheese is creamy and creamy. What is the best vinaigrette? What is a salad that converts even the biggest salad skeptics?

What are some of the best salads to make? Is it possible to throw a pizza together in 15 minutes? No fancy equipment required. Just chop, toss, and enjoy! What is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you need to eat healthy. Plus, it’s surprisingly cost-effective. Spinach and plums are often quite affordable, especially when they’re in season. What is a good, budget-friendly lunch that doesn’t break the bank? What is sacrifice on taste?

What I love about this is its versatility. Can you customize it by swapping out the cheese, adding different nuts, or using a different flavor? How do I make a different type of vinaigrette? I’ve even added grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal. If you like spinach, you might also like my strawberry spinach salad. What is a salad like?

How do you make a spinach salad?

Quick Overview

How do you make Plum Spinach Salad? How do I start prepping spinach and plums? After that, you’ll toast some nuts (this step is crucial for adding that extra layer of flavor and texture). What’s a good vinaigrette to make? What is the best way to use fresh ingredients in a recipe? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect combination!

Ingredients

For the Salad:
* 6 ounces baby spinach, washed thoroughly. I like to use organic spinach when possible.
* 4 ripe plums, pitted and sliced. Look for plums that are slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure.
* 4 ounces feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled. I’m a feta kind of gal, but goat cheese is amazing too.
* 1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped. Toasting is non-negotiable!
* Optional: 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (if you like a bite!).

For the Vinaigrette
* 3 tablespoons olive oil. Use a good quality extra virgin olive for the best flavor.
* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar. You can also use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as well.
I prefer honey, but maple syrup adds warmth.
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. This helps to emulsify the vinaigrette and adds a subtle tang.
* Salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with seasoning!

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prepare the Plums and Spinach

Start by washing your spinach thoroughly and drying it well. I use a salad spinner for this, but you can also pat it dry with paper towels. What is the best way to slice plums? I like to slice them into wedges, but you can also dice them if you prefer. If you’re using red onion, thinly slice it now too.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the nuts. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. When they’re fragrant and lightly browned, cook them until golden brown. If you want to toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, you can use a frying pan. How do I watch them carefully so they don’t burn!

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. Season with salt and pepper. I like to use a small whisk for this, but you can also use fork. If the vinaigrette is too tart, add a little honey. If it’s too sweet, add a little more vinegar.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced plums, crumbled feta (or goat cheese), toasted nuts, and salt. Set aside. What are the ingredients for a green onion? How do you serve vinaigrette over salad? How do you overdress a salad?

Step 5: Serve Immediately

What is the best way to serve this Plum Spinach Salad? If you’re making it ahead of time, I recommend waiting to dress it until just before serving. How do you prevent spinach from wilting and nuts from becoming soggy?

What is the best way to serve it?

What are some good recipes for a Plum Spinach Salad?

For breakfast or brunch:What is a healthy start to your day? A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a light mimosa would be the perfect complement. The salad adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the eggs.

For Lunch:This salad makes a great light lunch on its own, or you can pair it with soup or grilled chicken. What is cheese sandwich? What are some good side dishes to serve with vinaigrette? I often pack this for my lunch at work. If the dressing is kept separate until right before serving, it keeps well.

For Dinner:Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak. Is it a good accompaniment to pasta? The sweetness of plums and the tanginess of the vinaigrette help to cut through the richness of this lemon. What are some of the What is the best way to serve this with grilled salmon?

What is a good cozy snack? I also love to snack on it right before bed. It’s not too heavy, but the delicious flavors satisfy any sweet craving I have.

How do you make a perfect spinach salad?

What are some of the best ways to make Plums? What’s the best Spinach Salad you’ve ever taste

Plum Selection is Key: What are some examples?Don’t underestimate the importance of using ripe plums. What are plums that are slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure? They should also have a deep, rich color and sweet aroma. Avoid plums that are too hard or too soft, as they won’t have the best flavor or texture. I’ve made this with almost overripe plums and it always comes out so mushy!

Don’t skip toasting the nuts: This is a habitWhat are some of the best ways to toast nuts? Can you toast them in a dry skillet, in the oven, or even microwave? Just be sure to watch them carefully so they don’t burn. I always do this when I’m prepping other ingredients so they’re ready when they need it.

How do you make your own vinaigrStore-bought vinaigrettes are loaded with sugar and preservatives. Is it possible to make your own custom mug? What is the best olive oil and balsamic vinegar to use for? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. How does Dijon mustard help to emulsify the vinaigrette?

Don’t overdress the salad.If you overdress a salad, it will become soggy. Start with a small amount of vinaigrette and add more as needed, tossing gently. What is the best way to dress salad in dressing? If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

Add a Touch of Heat: If you like a little bit of spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette. This adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the plums and the tanginess of the vinaigrette. Sometimes I’ll toss in some fresh jalapeño slices as well!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover Plum Spinach Salad, here’s how to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing this salad at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. The spinach will wilt and the dressing can become warm and unappetizing. If you’re serving it at a party, keep it chilled until just before serving.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the spinach will wilt slightly over time, so it’s best to eat it as soon as possible. If you’re planning to store it for longer than a few hours, I recommend storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This will help to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this salad. The spinach will become mushy and the plums will lose their texture. The cheese will also change texture and become crumbly.

Glaze Timing Advice: Since there’s no glaze in this recipe, you don’t have to worry about that! However, remember to dress the salad right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Plum Spinach Salad is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Just be sure to use a gluten-free balsamic vinegar if you’re concerned about cross-contamination. Most balsamic vinegars are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the label to be sure.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, definitely! Feta and goat cheese are my go-to choices, but you can use any cheese that you like. Some other good options include blue cheese, Parmesan cheese, or even mozzarella cheese. The cheese adds a salty, creamy element to the salad, so choose one that complements the other flavors.

What other fruits can I use?

While this recipe is specifically for Plum Spinach Salad, you can certainly experiment with other fruits. Peaches, nectarines, berries, and even grapes would all be delicious in this salad. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette as needed to balance the flavors.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! This salad is a great base for adding protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, fish, or tofu would all be delicious additions. You can also add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this Plum Spinach Salad vegan by substituting the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omitting it altogether. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey in the vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my absolute favorite Plum Spinach Salad Recipe! I truly believe this salad is a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of sweet plums, tangy cheese, crunchy nuts, and bright vinaigrette is simply irresistible. If you’re looking for a salad that’s both delicious and impressive, look no further.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other salad recipes for more inspiration. And if you try this Plum Spinach Salad, please let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below and share your own variations. I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy salad-making!