5 Spinach Salads You Definitely Have To Try

Let’s be real—spinach salads don’t always get the love they deserve. Sure, they’re healthy, but they’re often dismissed as boring or bland.

But guess what? Spinach salads can be flavor-packed, vibrant, and downright delicious. Whether you’re a salad enthusiast or someone who’s just trying to eat more greens, these 5 spinach salads will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about leafy greens.

Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

1. Classic Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing

This salad is the OG of spinach salads. It’s got everything you need: crispy bacon, a tangy-sweet dressing, and a sprinkle of hard-boiled eggs for good measure. It’s like a warm hug in salad form. Perfect for when you want something comforting but still kinda healthy (we’ll ignore the bacon for a second).

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside, but leave the bacon grease in the pan.
2. In the same skillet, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, toss the spinach, bacon, red onion, and eggs.
4. Drizzle the warm dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the warm dressing—it’s what makes this salad next-level. FYI, it’s also great with a sprinkle of blue cheese if you’re feeling fancy.

2. Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Sweet, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing, this salad is a summer staple. The combination of juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds is a match made in salad heaven. Plus, that balsamic glaze? Chef’s kiss.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, goat cheese, and almonds.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
3. Toss gently and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Toast the almonds for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the extra 5 minutes.

3. Mediterranean Spinach Salad

If you’re craving something fresh and vibrant, this Mediterranean-inspired salad is your go-to. Packed with olives, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s like a vacation for your taste buds. Bonus: it’s super easy to throw together.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp oregano

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, olives, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Add a handful of chickpeas for extra protein and a Mediterranean vibe. You’re welcome.

4. Spinach and Quinoa Power Salad

Need a salad that’s actually filling? This one’s got you covered. Packed with quinoa, avocado, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a meal in itself. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, quinoa, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and a boost of nutrients. IMO, it’s a game-changer.

5. Spinach Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing

This one’s for the adventurous eaters. The spicy peanut dressing adds a bold, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh spinach and crunchy veggies. It’s like a party in your mouth.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp sriracha (or more if you like it spicy)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, carrots, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and sriracha.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Top with chopped peanuts and serve immediately.

Pro Tip: Add some grilled chicken or tofu to make this salad a full meal. You’ll thank me later.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby spinach for these salads?

Absolutely! Baby spinach is tender and works great in all these recipes.

2. How do I store leftover spinach salad?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, but add the dressing just before serving to avoid soggy greens.

3. Can I make these salads vegan?

Totally! Swap out cheese and eggs for plant-based alternatives, and use vegan-friendly dressings.

4. What’s the best way to wash spinach?

Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner. No one likes gritty spinach!

5. Can I add protein to these salads?

Of course! Grilled chicken, tofu, chickpeas, or even shrimp are great additions.

Final Thoughts

Spinach salads don’t have to be boring. With these 5 recipes, you’ve got options for every mood—whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or spicy. So, grab that bag of spinach and get creative. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you. 😉