- 1
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard like you're shaking up a mini cocktail for your salad dreams.
- 2
Taste-test it—if it's a little too tangy, drizzle in more honey; if it's too sweet, hit it with a splash of vinegar.
- 3
Once it's balanced just right, set it aside to chill.
- 4
You can prep this dressing and store it in the fridge, but don't forget to give it a good shake before using—nobody likes a lazy, separated dressing.
- 5
Rinse fresh spinach under cold water and spin it dry or gently pat it down with a kitchen towel.
- 6
Dry leaves are non-negotiable because we want the dressing to stick, not slide.
- 7
Slice a crisp apple into thin wedges (peeling is optional, but the skin adds color and crunch).
- 8
Thinly slice some red onion—it's going to bring that subtle zing to the party.
- 9
Throw your spinach, apple slices, and red onion into a big salad bowl.
- 10
Pour in a little of your dressing and toss gently, just enough to lightly coat everything—remember, less is more when it comes to starting the dressing game.
- 11
Meanwhile, toast 1/2 cup of pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat.
- 12
Give them a couple of minutes until they're golden and fragrant, then let them cool before adding them to the salad for that irresistible nutty crunch.
- 13
Grab some goat cheese (about ¼ cup) and crumble it over the salad.
- 14
Those creamy, tangy bits will be a total game-changer.
- 15
Toss in ⅓ cup of dried cranberries for a sweet pop that complements the goat cheese like they were meant to be together.
- 16
Add more dressing if needed, but don't go overboard—you want to taste the fresh ingredients, not drown them.
- 17
Toss everything gently (seriously, be kind to the goat cheese and spinach), then sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper for that final touch.
- 18
Serve this lovely spinach salad recipe immediately while everything's crisp and vibrant.