This refreshing spinach salad combines crisp apples, sharp cheddar cheese, and crunchy walnuts for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Salad
This spinach salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.
With fresh spinach as the base, it offers a crisp and nutritious foundation.
The addition of an apple, thinly sliced, introduces a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the greens perfectly.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese, at 1 cup, adds a rich and creamy texture, while 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts brings a satisfying crunch.
Finally, a drizzle of 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette ties all these elements together, enhancing the overall taste.
Quick and Easy Preparation
Preparing this salad is a breeze and can be done in just 15 minutes.
Start by rinsing the fresh spinach and patting it dry to maintain its crispness.
Thinly slice the apple and chop the walnuts to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced apple, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped walnuts.
This colorful mix not only looks appealing but also offers a variety of textures and flavors.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This spinach salad is versatile enough to serve as a light meal or a side dish.
Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner gatherings.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a nutritious lunch option, this salad fits the bill.
It’s also a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions
When ready to serve, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavors even further.
Divide the salad into individual plates or bowls for a beautiful presentation.
This salad can be enjoyed immediately, ensuring that the ingredients remain fresh and crisp.
Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside your favorite main dishes.
Nutritional Benefits
This spinach salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
With 180 calories per serving, it provides a healthy option for those watching their intake.
The combination of spinach, apples, and walnuts offers a good source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Each serving contains 12g of fat, 6g of protein, and 14g of carbohydrates, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
Enjoy the benefits of fresh ingredients while savoring a delightful mix of flavors.
Visual Appeal
The presentation of this salad is as appealing as its taste.
The vibrant greens of the spinach, the bright red of the apple slices, and the golden hue of the cheddar create a feast for the eyes.
When served on a rustic wooden table, the salad takes on an inviting and wholesome look.
This visual appeal enhances the overall dining experience, making it a perfect dish for entertaining guests.
The colorful arrangement encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.
Easy Spinach Salad with Apples and Cheddar

This spinach salad is a vibrant combination of fresh ingredients that takes just 15 minutes to prepare. It serves 4 people and is great for lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the fresh spinach and pat dry. Thinly slice the apple and chop the walnuts.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced apple, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped walnuts.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Divide the salad into individual plates or bowls and enjoy immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g

Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.