Sicilian Spinach Salad
- A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad featuring fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts.
- Drizzled with a bright citrus vinaigrette for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Easy to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed (optional)
- 1/4 cup shaved Pecorino Romano (optional)
- 1/2 cup orange segments (optional)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional for dressing)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for dressing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for dressing)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the citrus vinaigrette. Add optional garlic, honey, and Dijon if using.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the spinach leaves and place in a large serving bowl.
- Heat a small dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add pine nuts and toast until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- Drizzle about three-quarters of the dressing over the spinach and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooled toasted pine nuts, and sliced red onion. Include optional ingredients like basil, capers, orange segments, and olives if desired.
- Gently toss all ingredients until evenly distributed throughout the salad. Add remaining dressing if needed.
- Let the salad rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- If using, sprinkle with shaved Pecorino Romano just before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, serve this salad immediately after preparing.
- To make ahead, store components separately and assemble just before serving.
- Soaking the red onions in cold water for 10 minutes will reduce their sharpness.
- Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 198
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 285
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: sicilian spinach salad, citrus vinaigrette, sun-dried tomato spinach, pine nut salad, Mediterranean spinach salad