Elevate your salad game with this irresistible Spinach Salad with Gorgonzola Croutons and Bacon Twists—a deliciously creative twist on a classic dish. Crisp, fresh spinach forms the vibrant base, paired with juicy cherry tomatoes and zesty red onion slices for a refreshing crunch. The highlight? Toasty French baguette croutons layered with tangy gorgonzola cheese and savory bacon strips expertly twisted and baked to perfection. A homemade honey-Dijon vinaigrette ties these bold, contrasting flavors together, adding a touch of sweetness and tanginess. Ideal as a standout starter or a satisfying main course, this salad is quick to prepare, delightfully indulgent, and perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the French baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Brush one side of each slice with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder.
Bake the baguette slices on the prepared baking sheet for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Remove the croutons from the oven and immediately top each with a small amount of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Set aside to cool slightly.
Place the bacon slices on another parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently twist each slice, holding the ends to keep the twist in place. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until crispy. Place on paper towels to drain excess grease and let cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette. Adjust seasoning to taste.
In a large salad bowl, toss the fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Divide the salad among four serving plates. Top each with 2-3 Gorgonzola croutons and 2 bacon twists.
Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful spinach salad!
Calories |
2072 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 122.8 g | 157% | |
| Saturated Fat | 40.4 g | 202% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 179 mg | 60% | |
| Sodium | 5888 mg | 256% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 173.8 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.2 g | 47% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.9 g | ||
| Protein | 74.6 g | 149% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 904 mg | 70% | |
| Iron | 14.6 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 1261 mg | 27% | |
*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.