Easy Spinach Salad Recipe With Zesty Curry Dressing

My college friend Dede Faulkner Graves gave me this recipe, and I quickly fell in love with it the first time I made it. Here’s why I think it’s one of the best recipes for spinach salad, so much so that it’s become my go-to salad for many occasions:

1. Quick and easy to prepare. This salad is a go-to choice when you’re short on time but still want something delicious and nutritious. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a unique and deeply aromatic salad dressing from scratch, prep the other ingredients, and toss together a delicious and nutritious side salad.
2. Elegant. Its simplicity in preparation doesn’t compromise on elegance. This beautiful spinach salad is a rustically elegant dish that can effortlessly elevate any dining occasion, from a casual gathering to a more formal dinner party.
3. Versatile. While this salad is delicious as is, you can customize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences, including adding cheese, avocados, or even strawberries.
4. Nutritious. Packed with nutritious spinach leaves, this delicious salad is also incredibly healthy. Spinach is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that provide a range of health benefits, including boosting your immune system and promoting healthy digestion.
5. Bold, earthy flavors. What sets this salad apart is its zesty curry dressing. Bursting with deep, aromatic flavors, this dressing adds a subtle kick to the salad that harmonizes perfectly with the spinach and other ingredients. 

Spinach is often referred to as a superfood for a reason. It is rich in essential nutrients that can do wonders for your health. Incorporating spinach into your diet has numerous benefits, ranging from improving your overall well-being to supporting your immune system:

• High vitamin content. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin, boosting your immune system, and promoting proper blood clotting. Additionally, spinach is packed with minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium, which contribute to bone health and help regulate blood pressure.
• Rich in antioxidants. Spinach is full of antioxidants that can protect your body against free radicals and oxidative stress. These antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and lutein, have been linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain types of cancer.

To make the curry dressing, gather the following ingredients (quantities are provided in the recipe card below):

• White wine vinegar (can also use red wine vinegar)
• Dry vermouth
• Dijon mustard
• Soy sauce (I prefer low sodium)
• Curry powder
• Granulated sugar
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper 
• Extra virgin olive oil 

Now, let’s dive into how to create this flavorful dressing:

In a small bowl or a medium-sized glass jar with a fitted lid, whisk together the vinegar, vermouth, mustard, soy sauce, curry powder, sugar, salt and pepper. Slowly whisk in olive oil until well blended. Screw on cover and set aside. For the best flavor, allow the dressing to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.

To prepare the spinach salad, you will need the following ingredients (quantities are included in the recipe card below):

• Fresh baby spinach
• Raisins
• Peanuts – I prefer to use dry roasted, but any peanut will work
• Green onion
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Curry Dressing

If making ahead, cover the dressing and refrigerate; it will last up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before using. The spinach can be prepped earlier in the day, placed in a salad bowl, covered, and refrigerated.
 
I don’t recommend storing any leftovers that have been tossed with the dressing, as the spinach will wilt.

While this spinach salad recipe is already a winner, you can always experiment and add your personal touch to it. Here are a few ideas to customize the salad to your liking:

• Add feta, goat cheese or blue cheese for bit of tang.
• Include sliced avocados for extra creaminess and earthy flavors.
• Replace the green onion with chopped or thinly sliced red onion.
• Instead of peanuts, toss in some toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or walnuts.
• Add crispy bacon for a bit of protein and added crunch.
• Toss in some chopped hard boiled eggs for a bit of protein and varied flavor.
• Add sliced fresh strawberries for a pop of color, as well as a sweet contrast to the sharp curry dressing.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a main dish salad.
   
  Feel free to get creative and make this spinach salad your own. The possibilities are endless!