Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon-Mustard Dressing - A Simple Yet Flavorful Salad

This easy spinach salad takes your typical greens to the next level. Crisp spinach is topped with hard boiled eggs, avocado, tomato and crumbled bacon. The real star is the warm mustard and bacon dressing, which slightly wilts and perfectly coats each leaf. Whisking up this flavorful dressing takes just minutes. With a combination of savory, creamy and crunchy elements, this salad makes a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

Rinse and Dry Spinach

Rinse 6 cups of fresh spinach under cool water. Use your hands to gently toss the leaves and allow any grit to fall away. Spread leaves out on a clean kitchen towel and pat dry.

Hard Boil the Eggs

Place 2 large eggs in a small pot and cover with 1 inch of water. Bring to a boil, then immediately remove from heat. Let eggs sit in the hot water for 10-12 minutes before transferring to an ice bath. Peel once cooled.

Chop Vegetables

Dice 1 avocado and 1 pint grape tomatoes. Chop 4 slices cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces. Slice hard boiled eggs.

Make the Warm Dressing

In a small skillet over medium heat, cook 4 slices chopped bacon until beginning to crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Reserve 1 tbsp bacon fat in the skillet.

Whisk together 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tbsp vinegar, pepper and 1/4 cup olive oil. Whisk in warm bacon fat. Add chopped bacon.

Assemble and Dress Salad

Arrange spinach leaves on plates or in a bowl. Top with eggs, avocado, tomatoes and extra bacon. Slowly drizzle the warm dressing over each salad. Serve immediately.

Optional Additions

Customize your salad with any of these fun ingredients:

- Crumbled feta or gorgonzola cheese

- Toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts

- Diced red onion

- Sliced strawberries

This easy spinach salad is full of contrasting flavors and textures. The warm bacon dressing takes it to the next level. Satisfying yet good for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store leftovers?

Yes, refrigerate undressed leftover salad for 2-3 days. Dress just before serving.

Can I use bagged spinach?

Yes, just make sure to dry it thoroughly before dressing.

What about different salad greens?

Arugula, baby kale or romaine would also work well.

Do I need to whisk the dressing?

Whisking helps emulsify, but you can also just shake ingredients in a jar.

Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be substituted for regular bacon if preferred.

This easy spinach salad with warm bacon dressing is sure to be a hit at lunch or dinner. The balance of flavors and textures makes it truly satisfying.