Even I have to admit: sometimes a spinach salad is absolutely fabulous.
A few simple, well-chosen ingredients — bacon often among them — can turn humble spinach into a satisfying dish.
I don’t usually count salad as a full meal unless there’s a loaf of bread involved beforehand. Bonus points if that bread is dipped in herbed olive oil.
Let’s not dwell on all the disappointing salads out there. Instead, let’s celebrate the ones that get everything right.
Like this one.
Raw baby spinach is endlessly versatile when topped with flavors and textures I love: sweet, salty, crunchy and creamy all at once.
After I took these photos I added sliced filet to the salad, which elevated it even further. I’m not usually the chicken-every-day type, but if filet were practical to eat every day, I’d be tempted.
I finished the salad with a drizzle of good olive oil — I often prefer oil and a few simple seasonings to heavy bottled dressings. I almost made a hot bacon dressing, but decided to save the bacon grease for another recipe.
My grandmother adored a spinach salad dressed with warm bacon vinaigrette from a local spot; she could savor a small portion over several days. Her daily little indulgences in butter, lard and bacon might be part of why she lived a long life. Moderation can look like enjoying something small and delicious every day.
Loaded Spinach Salad
1
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review »
Ingredients
- 3 cups spinach
- 1 ounce crumbled gorgonzola
- 2 slices bacon, fried and crumbled
- 1/4 sweet onion, sliced and caramelized
- 2 tablespoons toasted pecans, chopped
- 1/4 avocado, chopped
Instructions
-
Place the spinach in a large bowl. Top with crumbled gorgonzola, crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, toasted pecans and chopped avocado. Toss lightly with your favorite dressing or a simple drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
Did you make this recipe?
Share a photo and tag your post with the hashtag for the recipe you love. I always enjoy seeing how you make it your own. Thank you for trying this recipe!
Truth: vegetables absolutely count when they’re dressed in bacon and cheese. End of story.