Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing

Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing

Spinach salad with hot bacon dressing with sliced mushrooms, red onion, and crispy bacon is a hearty salad that's perfect for both weeknights, and gatherings!

Ingredients

  • bacon

    cut into 1/2-inch pieces

    ½ lb
  • baby spinach
    ¾ lb
  • white or cremini mushrooms

    sliced

    ¾ lb
  • red onion

    sliced

    1 small
  • bacon fat

    from the cooked bacon above

    5 tbsp
  • shallot

    minced

    1 large
  • extra virgin olive oil
    ½ c
  • red wine vinegar
    5 tbsp
  • honey
    1 ½ tbsp
  • dijon mustard
    2 tsp
  • salt and pepper
    to taste
  • grated pecorino romano
    1 tbsp

Directions

For the salad

  1. 1

    Cook the bacon in a large nonstick pan over medium heat until crisp (about 10 minutes) then remove with a slotted spoon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 5 tablespoons of bacon fat for the dressing.

  2. 2

    Place the spinach, mushrooms, and red onion into a large salad bowl.

For the dressing

  1. 1

    In the same pan as used for the bacon heat the reserved bacon fat and the extra virgin olive oil to medium-low and cook the shallots until soft (about 3-4 minutes).

  2. 2

    Add the mustard, honey, vinegar, and cheese to the pan and whisk together. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Turn the heat down to low but keep the dressing warm.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle half of the bacon and pour half of the dressing onto the salad and toss well. Add a bit more dressing if needed but don't overdress it. Serve the remaining dressing on the side and top each plate with the remaining bacon. Enjoy!

Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing

Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing

5.0(5)347 cal

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Ratings & Reviews

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Based on 5 ratings

sipandfeast.com
5.0(5 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a hearty, satisfying salad that brings warmth and flavor to any table? This Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing delivers a delicious symphony of fresh ingredients, smoky bacon, and a tangy-sweet dressing that’s perfect for both cozy weeknights and festive gatherings.

The magic of this salad truly lies in its hot bacon dressing. By using the rendered bacon fat as the base, you infuse every bite with incredible savory depth. This rich foundation is then balanced with the brightness of red wine vinegar, the subtle sweetness of honey, and a hint of Dijon mustard, creating a dressing that coats the tender spinach beautifully without making it soggy.

What you'll experience is a dynamic interplay of textures and tastes. Imagine crisp pieces of savory bacon mingling with tender baby spinach, earthy sliced mushrooms, and the vibrant bite of red onion. As the warm, tangy dressing is poured over, it gently wilts the spinach just enough to release its freshness, while adding an irresistible aroma. Each forkful is rounded out by a sprinkle of salty Pecorino Romano, adding a final layer of robust flavor that makes this salad feel truly complete. With 347 calories per serving, it’s a substantial dish that leaves you feeling satisfied.

While the recipe is delicious as written, feel free to experiment. For a different textural experience, consider adding toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts. If you prefer a milder cheese, a finely grated Parmesan could stand in for the Pecorino Romano. And for those who enjoy a touch more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing can add an exciting kick.

This robust spinach salad is a fantastic standalone meal or a memorable side dish. Serve it immediately after dressing to enjoy the peak freshness and warmth, perhaps alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up any extra dressing.

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