Spinach Salad with Plums & Feta
A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring the delightful combination of sweet, juicy plums, creamy feta, crunchy pecans, and fresh baby spinach, all brought together with a bright lemon vinaigrette. It's a quick and easy meal that delivers on both flavor and nutrition.
For 2 servings
**Prepare the Pecans**: If not already toasted, spread the pecans in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely, then roughly chop if desired.
**Wash and Dry Greens**: Thoroughly wash the baby spinach and spin it dry using a salad spinner, or pat dry with paper towels. Ensure it's completely dry to prevent a watery dressing. Place the dried spinach in a large mixing bowl.
**Prepare the Plums**: Wash the black plums, then carefully slice them in half, remove the pit, and cut each half into thin wedges or bite-sized pieces. Add the sliced plums to the bowl with the spinach.
**Assemble Dry Ingredients**: Crumble the feta cheese over the spinach and plums. Add the toasted and cooled pecans to the bowl.
**Make the Vinaigrette**: In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well emulsified and creamy.
**Dress the Salad**: Just before serving, pour about half to two-thirds of the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
**Toss and Serve**: Gently toss the salad to evenly coat all the ingredients with the dressing. Taste and add more dressing if desired. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Dry Greens are Key**: Always ensure your spinach is completely dry before dressing. Excess water will dilute the vinaigrette and prevent it from adhering properly to the leaves.
- 2**Toast Nuts for Flavor**: Toasting pecans (or any nuts) brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor and crunch, making a significant difference in the salad's overall taste and texture.
- 3**Dress Just Before Serving**: To prevent the spinach from wilting and becoming soggy, dress the salad right before you plan to serve it. If preparing ahead, keep dressing separate.
- 4**Balance Sweet and Tangy**: Adjust the honey and lemon juice in the vinaigrette to your preference. A little sweetness can balance the tartness of the plums and the saltiness of the feta beautifully.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, pan-seared halloumi, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Fruit SwapFruit Swap
Replace plums with fresh figs, peaches, or berries for seasonal variations.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Try goat cheese, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins & Minerals
Spinach is packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron, supporting bone health, vision, and immunity.
Antioxidant Power
Plums provide antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Healthy Fats & Fiber
Pecans offer heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while both spinach and plums contribute dietary fiber for digestive health.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare all the components (wash spinach, slice plums, toast pecans, make dressing) and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving for the best texture.
