Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary greens into an extraordinary flavor explosion! Our Citrus Pear Spinach Salad is the perfect blend of crisp spinach, juicy pears, and crunchy pecans, drizzled with a zesty orange-infused dressing that will make your palate dance with delight. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or just looking for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups of fresh spinach
- 1 large pear, diced
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of orange juice
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: fresh spinach, a large pear, chopped pecans, olive oil, and orange juice. Make sure you have a clean cutting board and sharp knife ready for preparation.
- Rinse the fresh spinach under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Once washed, gently pat the spinach dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Take the large pear and carefully dice it into bite-sized pieces. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients, or peel it if you prefer a smoother consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cleaned spinach and diced pear. Make sure to toss them gently to avoid bruising the spinach leaves.
- Next, add the chopped pecans to the bowl. If you prefer a toasted flavor, you can toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, but this step is optional.
- In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil and orange juice. Whisk or shake well to emulsify the dressing until it is fully blended.
- Drizzle the olive oil and orange juice dressing over the spinach, pear, and pecan mixture. Toss the salad gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Once everything is well mixed, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if desired. You can add a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Serve the Citrus Pear Spinach Salad immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious salad as a side dish or a light main course.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pear: Select a ripe but firm pear to ensure the perfect texture and sweetness in your salad.
- Maximize Flavor with Toasted Pecans: While optional, toasting pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes can elevate the nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- Dressing Hack: Prepare the dressing in a sealed jar and shake vigorously to create a smooth, well-emulsified vinaigrette.
- Keep It Fresh: Serve the salad immediately after dressing to prevent the spinach from wilting and maintain its crisp texture.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add goat cheese, dried cranberries, or swap pecans for almonds to make this recipe your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
