Spinach Salad with Bacon and Croutons
Elevate your salad game with this irresistible Spinach Salad with Bacon and Croutons—a perfect harmony of fresh, vibrant greens, crunchy homemade croutons, and crispy, savory bacon. Tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette with hints of Dijon mustard and honey, this dish strikes the ideal balance of flavors. Whether you're using slightly stale baguette for extra-crispy croutons or adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese as a finishing touch, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with texture and taste. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's a versatile side dish or a light main meal that never fails to impress. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings alike, this spinach salad delivers a delicious combination that’s both classic and crave-worthy.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 cups Fresh spinach leaves
- 6 slices Bacon
- 2 cups Bread (preferably slightly stale, such as baguette or country bread)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for croutons)
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 0.25 cups Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Honey
- 0.25 cups Olive oil (for vinaigrette)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the bread into 1/2-inch cubes to make croutons. Toss the bread cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove and let cool.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the 1/4 cup of olive oil for the vinaigrette while whisking to emulsify.
Wash and dry the spinach leaves thoroughly, then transfer them to a large serving bowl.
Add the cooled croutons and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the spinach.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Spinach Salad with Bacon and Croutons!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2514 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 132.4 g | 170% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.7 g | 154% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 83 mg | 28% | |
| Sodium | 5437 mg | 236% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 247.1 g | 90% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.8 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.0 g | ||
| Protein | 85.4 g | 171% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 1261 mg | 97% | |
| Iron | 21.4 mg | 119% | |
| Potassium | 1524 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
