Spinach, Fig & Cherry Tomatoes Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette Recipe
This refreshing and vibrant Spinach, Fig & Cherry Tomatoes Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette is an easy-to-make dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and savory elements. The earthiness of the fresh spinach, the rich sweetness of figs, and the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes are harmoniously complemented by the creamy feta cheese and a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a side dish for a special occasion, this salad will not disappoint.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach Leaves (Palak) | 1 cup (torn) |
| Fresh Figs | 5 (cut into quarters) |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 10 (cut into halves) |
| Cucumber | 1 (peeled and sliced) |
| Feta Cheese | 50 grams (crumbled) |
| Red Wine Vinaigrette | 1/4 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Preparation Time:
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Servings:
4 servings
Cuisine:
Continental
Course:
Appetizer
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all the fresh ingredients: torn spinach leaves, fresh figs cut into quarters, cherry tomatoes sliced in half, and cucumber peeled and sliced. Place them into a large mixing bowl and set aside. -
Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the red wine vinaigrette, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk them together until the dressing is smooth, and the olive oil is fully incorporated with the vinaigrette. -
Assemble the Salad:
Pour the freshly prepared dressing over the mixed spinach, figs, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber in the mixing bowl. Toss the ingredients together gently, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the vinaigrette. -
Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top for an added creamy, salty finish. -
Chill and Serve:
For the best taste, refrigerate the salad for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the crisp freshness of the vegetables. -
Optional Pairing:
This delightful Spinach, Fig & Cherry Tomatoes Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try serving it alongside Penne Pasta in Spinach Basil Sauce or Quick Roasted Vegetable Bread Pizza for a special weekend dinner that will impress your guests.
Tips for Perfecting This Salad:
- Fresh Figs: Make sure to use ripe, fresh figs for the best sweetness and texture. If figs are out of season, dried figs can be used as a substitute, though fresh figs are preferred for this recipe.
- Vinaigrette Variations: You can experiment with the vinaigrette by adding a splash of honey for extra sweetness or balsamic vinegar for a more robust flavor.
- Chill the Salad: If you have time, refrigerate the salad before serving. This makes it extra refreshing, especially on hot days.
This Spinach, Fig & Cherry Tomatoes Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a delightful experience, and the red wine vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully. Whether served as a starter or paired with your favorite meal, itβs bound to be a hit at your table!
