Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing

Here’s a Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion! 🥗🥓

Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing

Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 6 cups fresh baby spinach
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• ¼ cup feta or blue cheese crumbles (optional)
• ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Warm Bacon Dressing:

• 3 tbsp bacon drippings (from cooked bacon)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon 🥓: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 3 tbsp of the bacon drippings for the dressing.
2. Prepare the Dressing 🥄: In the same skillet with the warm bacon drippings, whisk in the vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, black pepper, and garlic (if using). Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
3. Assemble the Salad 🥗: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced eggs, red onion, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, cheese, and nuts.
4. Dress & Toss 🔥: Drizzle the warm bacon dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Serve Immediately 🍽️: Enjoy while the dressing is warm for the best flavor!

Tips & Variations:

• Make It Heartier 🍗: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Sweeten It Up 🍏: Toss in sliced apples, pears, or dried cranberries.
• Add More Crunch 🥜: Try crispy croutons or sunflower seeds.
• Dairy-Free Option 🥛🚫: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

This savory, tangy, and slightly sweet salad is a classic that never disappoints!