Spinach & Fruit Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

I wanted to share one more summery recipe before Fall began. It's a refreshing spinach salad, and the balsamic vinaigrette is really delicious paired with the fruit and almonds. I've made it several times this summer. Even though fresh strawberries aren't available year-round, this vinaigrette would be great at any time.

Spinach & Fruit Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

~10 oz. fresh spinach (baby spinach probably works better here)
~ 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled & sliced (I use my egg slicer for this)
1 large can mandarin oranges, drained
~1 cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted

Balsamic Vinaigrette

1/4 cup canola oil
2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 1/2 tsp. granulated sugar
1/4 tsp. dried tarragon
1/8 tsp. onion powder
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
dash dry mustard

Combine salad ingredients in a large bowl. Combine dressing ingredients in a jar; shake until well blended. When ready to serve, drizzle dressing over the salad and toss lightly.


Recipe adapted from Southern Food at About.com