Prep: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
130 | 9g | 3g | 11g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
6g | 3g | 4g | 0.4g |
I’ve always been a huge advocate of incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients into my cooking. When I first created this Sorrel and Spinach Salad, I was inspired by the lush, vivid greens of the Pacific Northwest combined with the vibrant fruits that sing the song of summer. It’s the kind of recipe that brings together the best of both worlds, creating a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
The Perfect Balance
What makes the Sorrel and Spinach Salad so special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender spinach and slightly tangy sorrel provide a refreshing base. When you toss in strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, you get a burst of natural sweetness that complements the greens wonderfully. The addition of crumbled feta cheese brings a slight creaminess, while the red onions add a sharp bite. Toasted walnuts or pecans introduce a delightful crunch, and the balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with its rich, tangy flavor.
Health Benefits Galore
This salad is not just a treat for your taste buds – it’s also packed with health benefits. Spinach is well-known for its high iron content, aiding in red blood cell production and immunity. Sorrel, often underappreciated, is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help boost your immune system and fight inflammation. Berries are notorious for their high antioxidant levels, aiding in reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Feta cheese, although often viewed through a culinary lens, brings in calcium and proteins without overwhelming the calorie count, especially when used sparingly.
But the health benefits don’t stop there. Nuts like walnuts and pecans are excellent sources of healthy fats and proteins, making this salad a good choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Balsamic vinaigrette, when chosen wisely, can be a low-calorie dressing that adds flavor without excessive fat or sugar.
Pair It Up!
This Sorrel and Spinach Salad pairs beautifully with many dishes. Its refreshing profile makes it an excellent companion to grilled seafood, like a simple grilled salmon or teriyaki tuna. You can also serve it alongside a light pasta dish or a hearty mushroom risotto to create a well-rounded meal.
If you’re a fan of similar recipes, you might also enjoy dishes like a classic Greek salad or a mixed berry salad with a honey lemon dressing. They all share that invigorating combination of fresh greens and fruity brilliance, designed to leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
In the end, the Sorrel and Spinach Salad is a beautiful representation of my love for fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. It’s a recipe that not only feeds the body but also delights the soul, bringing a little bit of the Pacific Northwest and a touch of Japanese-inspired balance to your table.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh sorrel leaves, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach and sorrel leaves.
Step Two
Add the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to the bowl.
Step Three
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad mixture.
Step Four
Add the thinly sliced red onion and toasted walnuts or pecans.
Step Five
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad.
Step Six
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Seven
Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients.
Step Eight
Serve immediately and enjoy!