Looking for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious? Say hello to the Make Ahead Layered Spinach Salad! This colorful medley of fresh spinach, crunchy vegetables, and creamy feta is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, this salad can be prepped in just 20 minutes and is designed to impress. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite dressing, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Dive into this recipe and discover how to make a salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large bag of fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 cup dressing of choice
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the salad. Ensure you have a large bowl or a deep dish for layering the salad.
- Rinse the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Spin dry in a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels.
- In the bottom of the bowl or dish, place the rinsed spinach evenly as the first layer. This will serve as the base of your layered salad.
- Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the spinach layer, distributing them evenly for a colorful presentation.
- Layer the sliced cucumbers over the cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are spread out evenly to provide a refreshing crunch.
- Sprinkle the shredded carrots over the cucumbers, adding a layer of sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
- Thinly slice the red onion and layer it over the carrots. If desired, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their flavor before adding them.
- Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the red onions, distributing it evenly for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Add the sunflower seeds as the final layer, providing a nutty crunch that complements the other ingredients.
- When ready to serve, drizzle your dressing of choice evenly over the top layer of sunflower seeds. You can use a store-bought dressing or a homemade vinaigrette.
- If you are preparing this salad ahead of time, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the salad fresh.
- Before serving, gently toss the salad to combine the layers and distribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious make-ahead layered spinach salad!
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest spinach and vegetables you can find. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
- Layering Technique: When layering, try to distribute the ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Use a clear bowl to show off those beautiful layers!
- Dressing Choice: Feel free to experiment with different dressings! A tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing can change the salad's profile and cater to various tastes.
- Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Onion Soaking: If you find raw onions too pungent, soak the sliced red onions in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This will mellow their flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: To keep the salad fresh, serve the dressing on the side and let guests dress their own portions. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even quinoa to the layers for a protein boost.Enjoy crafting this delightful layered spinach salad that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
