Baby Spinach Salad with Lemon and Parmesan
If youโre looking for a simple yet exquisitely fresh recipe to brighten up your meal, this Baby Spinach Salad with Lemon and Parmesan is a delightful choice that checks all the boxes. Ideal for spring, this salad is not only light but also aligns perfectly with low-carb diets. Fresh baby spinach is the star of this dish, offering a tender, nutrient-rich base that pairs beautifully with a zesty lemon vinaigrette and shavings of rich Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, cut in half
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 10 cups fresh baby spinach (about 10 ounces)
Instructions
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Prepare the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice. While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil in a steady stream. Continue whisking until the mixture emulsifies into a creamy vinaigrette. Set the bowl aside for now. -
Season the Salad Bowl:
Take a large salad bowl and rub the inside with the cut sides of the garlic halves. This will infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the bowl, enhancing the overall taste of the salad. -
Assemble the Salad:
Add the fresh baby spinach to the garlic-rubbed bowl. Drizzle the creamy lemon vinaigrette over the spinach. Gently toss the salad with tongs or salad servers, ensuring that each leaf is evenly coated with the vinaigrette. -
Serve the Salad:
Divide the dressed spinach among four plates. For a touch of elegance, use a vegetable peeler to shave wide sheets of Parmesan cheese over each serving of salad. -
Season and Enjoy:
Lightly season each plate with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of your perfectly dressed baby spinach salad!
This salad not only takes just 15 minutes to prepare but also offers a burst of freshness and a delightful mix of tangy and savory notes. The combination of crisp baby spinach, zesty lemon, and nutty Parmesan makes this salad a standout option for a quick, healthy lunch or a light snack.
Enjoy your meal! ๐ฅ๐๐ง
