Zesty Spinach Salad with Mandarin Oranges and Warm Bacon Dressing
A refreshing twist on a classic, this spinach salad combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the rich, savory warmth of a bacon dressing. Itβs the perfect balance of bright and bold flavors for any season.
π΄ Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced (optional)
For the Bacon Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons bacon drippings (from cooking)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
π₯ Instructions
Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and reserve 3 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
Make the Dressing:
To the warm drippings, add vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and emulsified. Keep warm.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, mandarin oranges, red onion, almonds, and sliced eggs if using.
Dress and Serve:
Drizzle warm bacon dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Top with crispy bacon and serve immediately.
π¦ Amazon Must-Haves to help you create the best Zesty Spinach Salad with Mandarin Oranges and Warm Bacon Dressing
- π₯ Premium Thick-Cut Bacon β Great for that deep smoky flavor and perfect bacon drippings
- π Mandarin Oranges in Juice, 6-Pack β Sweet and juicy, ready to toss into your salad
- π³ Cast Iron Skillet β Ideal for rendering bacon and making warm vinaigrettes
- π₯ Mini Whisk Set β Essential for perfectly mixing your bacon dressing
- π₯ Large Glass Salad Bowl β Sleek and spacious for tossing and serving
- π§ Adjustable Mandoline Slicer β Quickly slice onions and other veggies to perfect thinness
π‘ Helpful Tip: For extra crunch and flavor, try adding crispy wonton strips or crumbled feta to this salad. A splash of fresh orange juice in the dressing can also enhance the citrusy notes.