Hearty Spinach Salad with Bacon, Apple, Cheddar and Honey Dijon Dressing

This isn’t your average side salad-it’s a hearty, flavor-packed bowl that’s perfect for a light dinner or a filling lunch. We combine tender fresh spinach with crisp apple slices, smoky bacon, tangy white cheddar, chewy dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts. Everything is tossed in a creamy honey Dijon dressing that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

With contrasting textures and a balance of sweet, savory and tangy, this salad is as delicious as it is easy to make. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a stress-free meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients

0.5 ounce WalnutsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit Granny Smith AppleView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

5 ounce SpinachView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 cup White Cheddar CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

3 ounce Honey Dijon DressingView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 ounce Dried CranberriesView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

8 ounce BaconView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the produce. Halve the apple, remove the core and thinly slice it.
2. Heat a medium dry nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Using kitchen shears, cut the bacon into bite-size pieces directly into the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally and adjusting the heat if browning too quickly, until crispy, 4-6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate.
3. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, apple slices, cooked bacon, half of the cheddar, half of the dried cranberries and half of the walnuts. Add as much honey Dijon dressing as you like and toss to combine. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the salad between shallow bowls. Top with the remaining cheddar, remaining cranberries and remaining walnuts. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the spinach from wilting. You can prep the ingredients (cook bacon, slice apple, toast walnuts) in advance and store them separately.

What can I substitute for the honey Dijon dressing?

You can use a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard and a touch of honey or any creamy dressing you like.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your bacon and dressing are certified gluten-free if needed.