Spinach Salad with Cherries & Goat Cheese
This elegant Spinach Salad with Cherries & Goat Cheese is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it an ideal light lunch or sophisticated side.
For 2 servings
First, prepare the balsamic vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified. Set aside.
Wash the baby spinach and arugula thoroughly under cold water. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels to ensure the greens are completely dry; this is crucial for the dressing to adhere properly.
Pit the sweet cherries and then cut each cherry in half. If using larger cherries, you may quarter them.
In a large salad bowl, combine the dried baby spinach and arugula. Add the halved cherries and the crumbled goat cheese.
Sprinkle the toasted and roughly chopped pecans over the salad ingredients.
Just before serving, re-whisk the balsamic vinaigrette to ensure it's well combined. Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the salad.
Gently toss the salad to evenly coat all the ingredients with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always dry your greens thoroughly after washing. Excess water will dilute the dressing and prevent it from clinging to the leaves.
- 2For best flavor, toast your pecans (or any nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant before adding them to the salad.
- 3Dress the salad just before serving. If dressed too early, the greens can wilt and become soggy.
- 4Use high-quality balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil for the dressing, as their flavors are prominent in this simple salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Substitute cherries with other seasonal fruits like sliced peaches, nectarines, or fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) for a different sweet note.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
If goat cheese isn't preferred, try crumbled feta cheese for a saltier tang or blue cheese for a bolder, pungent flavor.
Added ProteinAdded Protein
Transform this side salad into a main course by adding grilled chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Spinach and cherries are packed with antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Pecans provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Good Source of Vitamins & Minerals
Greens like spinach and arugula offer a wealth of vitamins (K, A, C) and minerals (folate, iron), supporting bone health, vision, and overall bodily functions.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare the dressing and pit the cherries a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Wash and dry the greens, but assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
