Old fashioned wilted spinach salad is a timeless dish that brings together tender, slightly wilted spinach, crispy bacon, and a tangy warm dressing. This salad is simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and perfect for a light meal or a standout starter. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe, tips for success, variations to try, and pairing suggestions to enhance your meal.
1. Old Fashioned Wilted Spinach Salad
Ingredients
For a salad that serves 4-6, you’ll need the following:
- 8 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Toppings
Place the fresh spinach in a large salad bowl. Add the sliced red onion and hard-boiled eggs on top. Set aside while preparing the dressing.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 3 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet for the dressing.
Step 3: Make the Warm Dressing
With the skillet still on low heat, whisk in the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar into the bacon drippings. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Pour the warm dressing over the spinach, onion, and eggs. Toss gently to coat the spinach and slightly wilt it. Sprinkle the crispy bacon on top for the final touch.
This salad is best enjoyed warm. Serve it as a side dish or light main course.
2. Tips For Best Wilted Spinach Salad
Use Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach works best because of its tender leaves, but mature spinach can also be used if stems are removed. Ensure the spinach is thoroughly dried to avoid diluting the dressing.
Cook Bacon Until Crisp: Crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch to the salad. Cooking it slowly over medium heat helps render the fat efficiently.
Balance the Dressing: The warm dressing should have the right balance of tanginess, sweetness, and savory notes. Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad to adjust the vinegar or sugar levels.
Serve Immediately: The salad should be served right after tossing in the warm dressing to enjoy the spinach at its perfectly wilted stage.
Control the Wilt: If you prefer a slightly crunchier texture, toss the spinach quickly with the dressing and serve. For a softer texture, toss longer to allow the heat to work its magic.
3. Recipe Variations
This classic dish can be adapted in many ways to suit your preferences or ingredients on hand. Here are a few variations to try:
Add Nuts or Seeds: Toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds add extra crunch and depth of flavor.
Include Cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese pairs beautifully with the warm dressing.
Swap the Protein: Replace bacon with pancetta or even cooked sausage for a different twist.
Fruit Additions: Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, apples, or dried cranberries can bring a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy dressing.
Experiment with Greens: Substitute part of the spinach with arugula or kale for a more complex flavor.
Try Other Vinegars: Balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used in place of apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
4. What To Serve With Wilted Spinach Salad
Wilted spinach salad is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
Baked Chicken or Fish: A serving of baked chicken breast or salmon makes this salad a complete and satisfying meal.
Soup: Pair it with a comforting bowl of tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or French onion soup for a cozy meal.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette or garlic bread to soak up any leftover dressing.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty accompaniment.
Pasta Dishes: Enjoy this salad as a starter alongside creamy pasta like fettuccine Alfredo or spaghetti carbonara.
This old fashioned wilted spinach salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a timeless favorite. With these tips, variations, and pairing suggestions, you can easily customize the dish to fit any occasion. Enjoy the nostalgic charm of this warm, flavorful salad!
