Spinach Salad Dressing is the perfect addition to a variety of salads, from fresh spinach and quinoa bowls to hearty pasta salads. This homemade dressing combines simple, wholesome ingredients like olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, delivering a deliciously fresh flavor that outshines store-bought options.
Not only is it quick to prepare but it also pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a spinach and strawberry salad or a healthy broccoli salad, this dressing will elevate your meal. Plus, it’s a healthy choice you can store in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it as convenient as it is tasty.
With its simplicity, rich flavor, and versatility, this Spinach Salad Dressing is a must-try for anyone looking to add a fresh, homemade touch to their salads.
Why Make Homemade Spinach Salad Dressing?
Store-bought dressings may be convenient, but they’re often loaded with preservatives, added sugars, and unnecessary fats. By making your own dressing, you can:
- Control the ingredients and adjust them to your taste.
- Enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors.
- Avoid artificial additives and preservatives.
- Save money and reduce waste by reusing jars and bottles.
Homemade spinach salad dressing is not only healthier but also easy to customize for various dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients for the Perfect Spinach Salad Dressing
Simple foods that you probably already have in your kitchen are used in this recipe. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors creates a dressing that pairs wonderfully with the earthy taste of spinach. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 tablespoons olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil works best for its rich flavor and health benefits.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that brightens the salad.
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a creamy texture and a slight hint of spice.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
These ingredients come together to form a silky vinaigrette that’s perfect for tossing with fresh spinach.
How to Make Spinach Salad Dressing
Crafting this dressing is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps:
- Combine Ingredients: Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper into a mason jar or any sealable container.
- Shake Well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined. The mustard acts as an emulsifier, keeping the oil and vinegar from separating.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more vinegar or honey to make it sour or sweet.
Pro Tip: If you’re not a fan of shaking, you can whisk the ingredients together in a small bowl.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 5mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg
Nutrition provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
- Antioxidants: Red wine vinegar contains antioxidants that promote overall wellness.
- Natural Sweeteners: Honey provides a subtle sweetness without refined sugars.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The spinach salad itself is loaded with vitamin A, iron, and potassium.
Our Favorite Spinach Salad Recipe
No spinach salad dressing is complete without the perfect salad to complement it. Here’s a simple recipe that lets the dressing shine:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, stems removed
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (Baby Bella or white mushrooms)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- Your homemade spinach salad dressing
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spinach: Rinse and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly. Place them in a large salad bowl.
- Add the Veggies: Layer the spinach with red onion slices, mushrooms, and hard-boiled eggs.
- Top It Off: Sprinkle feta cheese and toasted nuts over the salad for added texture and flavor.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
This salad makes a fantastic side dish or a light lunch. The combination of earthy spinach, creamy eggs, and tangy dressing is simply irresistible.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this spinach salad dressing is its versatility. Here are some variations to suit different tastes:
- Creamy Spinach Salad Dressing: Add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier texture.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute red wine vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a zesty flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in a teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for added depth.
Top Tips
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the amount of honey, or replace it with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Make It Creamy: Add 2–3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or avocado for a smooth, creamy texture that enhances richness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground black pepper and high-quality olive oil will elevate the taste.
- Store Properly: Keep the dressing in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks. There may be separation if you don’t shake well before each use.
By pairing this dressing with nutrient-dense ingredients, you’re creating a meal that’s both delicious and good for you.
Why This Recipe Ranks High on the Flavor Scale
This spinach salad dressing recipe stands out because of its simplicity and bold flavors. The balance of tangy vinegar, sweet honey, and savory mustard ensures that every bite of salad is bursting with flavor. Plus, the ability to customize the dressing means you can tailor it to your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any salad lover.
How make spinach salad dressing more Creamy
To make your Spinach Salad Dressing creamier while maintaining its delicious flavor, you can incorporate one or more of these ingredients into the recipe:
Options to Make it Creamy
- Greek Yogurt:
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy texture.
- It also boosts the protein content, making the dressing healthier.
- Mayonnaise:
- Mix in 1–2 tablespoons of mayonnaise for a rich, silky consistency.
- Perfect if you want a classic creamy texture.
- Avocado:
- Blend half of a ripe avocado with the dressing for a smooth, nutrient-packed creaminess.
- It adds healthy fats and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Cream Cheese or Sour Cream:
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese or sour cream for a velvety finish.
- This works particularly well for heartier salads.
- Cashew Cream (Vegan Option):
- Soak ½ cup of cashews in water for 4–6 hours, then blend them with a bit of water until smooth. Stir in 2–3 tablespoons to the dressing.
- This is a dairy-free option that provides a rich, creamy texture.
- Tahini:
- Add 1 tablespoon of tahini (sesame paste) for a nutty, creamy boost.
- This works well for Mediterranean-inspired salads.
Method to Incorporate Creaminess
- Blend the creamy ingredient into your dressing using a blender or whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Adjust the thickness by adding a splash of water or olive oil if necessary.
By adding these creamy elements, you’ll take your Spinach Salad Dressing to the next level, making it a luxurious addition to any salad!
More Salad Dressing Recipes
- Olive Garden Salad Dressing Recipe
- Homemade Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
- Classic Creamy Ranch Dressing
- Pineapple Dressing Recipe at Home
Best dressing for spinach salad
Homemade spinach salad dressing is a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful meals. With just a few simple ingredients and five minutes of your time, you can create a versatile dressing that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Say goodbye to store-bought dressings and hello to a healthier, tastier alternative.
FAQs Recipe
1. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes! This dressing can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Be sure to shake or whisk it well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
2. How can I make this dressing creamier?
To make the dressing creamier, you can add Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, avocado, or sour cream. Blend or whisk in 2–3 tablespoons of your chosen ingredient until smooth and well-combined.
3. Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or white wine vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. The choice will slightly alter the taste but still work well.
4. Is this dressing suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, it can be made vegan! Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and ensure the Dijon mustard you use is free from animal-derived ingredients. For a creamy vegan option, consider blending in cashew cream or tahini.
Spinach Salad Dressing – Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil works best for its rich flavor and health benefits.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that brightens the salad.
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a creamy texture and a slight hint of spice.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper into a mason jar or any sealable container.
- Shake Well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined. The mustard acts as an emulsifier, keeping the oil and vinegar from separating.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more vinegar or honey to make it sour or sweet.
Pro Tip: If you’re not a fan of shaking, you can whisk the ingredients together in a small bowl.
Video
Notes
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the amount of honey, or replace it with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Make It Creamy: Add 2–3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or avocado for a smooth, creamy texture that enhances richness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground black pepper and high-quality olive oil will elevate the taste.
- Store Properly: Keep the dressing in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks. There may be separation if you don’t shake well before each use.
Nutrition Information: Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 5mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg Nutrition provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
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