Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make salad recipe that combines the nutty flavor of spinach with the smoky goodness of bacon and the tanginess of feta cheese? Look no further! Spinach salads are a staple in many households, and when paired with crispy bacon and crumbly feta, they become an irresistible treat. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering spinach salad recipes that incorporate these two delicious ingredients.
From classic combinations like warm spinach salad with crispy bacon and balsamic dressing to more unique pairings like spinach and bacon salad with honey mustard vinaigrette or loaded spinach salad with bacon, eggs, and avocado, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory flavors or bold and tangy dressings, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, highlighting the essential ingredients and cooking methods that make them shine. So grab your apron, gather your favorite spinach, bacon, and feta, and let’s get started!
Warm Spinach Salad with Crispy Bacon and Balsamic Dressing
This hearty salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the richness of crispy bacon, all tied together with a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with foil and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
6. Add the cooked bacon, spinach, feta cheese (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet.
7. Stir well to combine, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach with crispy bacon, sweetness from cherry tomatoes, and a tangy honey mustard vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey mustard vinaigrette ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Loaded Spinach Salad with Bacon, Eggs, and Avocado
This hearty salad combines the freshness of spinach with the richness of crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and a perfectly cooked egg. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 large eggs, hard-boiled and sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves.
2. Top with crumbled bacon, sliced eggs, diced avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach, Bacon, and Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of spinach, the smokiness of bacon, and the natural sweetness of strawberries, all tied together with a tangy poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup poppy seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach and crumbled bacon.
2. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the spinach mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach Salad with Bacon, Blue Cheese, and Candied Pecans
This hearty salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the smokiness of bacon, the tanginess of blue cheese, and the sweetness of candied pecans.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1/4 cup candied pecans (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves.
2. Top the spinach with crumbled bacon, blue cheese, and candied pecans.
3. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus time for candying pecans)
Note: To make candied pecans, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss 1/2 cup of pecan halves with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant and caramelized.
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing
This savory salad combines the freshness of spinach with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, all tied together with a rich hot bacon dressing. Perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Hot Bacon Dressing (recipe below)
Hot Bacon Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in crumbled bacon.
6. In a large bowl, combine spinach, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese (if using). Drizzle with hot bacon dressing and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach, Bacon, and Mushroom Salad with Garlic Dressing
This savory salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach. The tangy garlic dressing brings it all together in a delicious harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, and sliced mushrooms.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach Salad with Bacon, Hard-Boiled Eggs, and Mustard Vinaigrette
This classic salad combines the flavors of crispy bacon, creamy hard-boiled eggs, and tangy mustard vinaigrette, all nestled among fresh baby spinach leaves.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
3. Boil the eggs for 12 minutes, then rinse under cold water and peel.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard to make the vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.
6. Drizzle the mustard vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
A sweet and savory salad that combines the richness of bacon with the earthiness of spinach, all tied together with a tangy maple dijon dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Maple Dijon Dressing (recipe below)
Maple Dijon Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, and chopped red onion.
2. If using blue cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle Maple Dijon Dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Spinach, Bacon, and Apple Salad with Cider Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the sweetness of apples and the smokiness of bacon, all tied together with a tangy cider vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup cider vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Cider Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach and crumbled bacon.
2. Add diced apples and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep time) + dressing preparation (5 minutes)
Spinach Salad with Bacon, Goat Cheese, and Roasted Beets
This salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the tanginess of goat cheese, and the crunch of crispy bacon for a delicious and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 bunch of beets (2-3), peeled and quartered
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss beets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a large bowl, combine spinach, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
5. Top with crispy bacon and drizzle with remaining olive oil.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing
A delicious and satisfying salad that combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the smokiness of bacon, all tied together with a rich and creamy parmesan dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves and crumbled bacon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach, Bacon, and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Gorgonzola
This autumnal salad combines the sweetness of pears, the smokiness of bacon, and the tanginess of gorgonzola cheese, all tied together with fresh spinach leaves and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 ripe pear, diced (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and crumbled bacon.
2. Arrange pear slices on top of the spinach mixture.
3. Sprinkle chopped walnuts and gorgonzola cheese over the pears.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach Salad with Bacon, Corn, and Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing spinach salad combines the sweetness of corn, cherry tomatoes, and crispy bacon for a perfect summer treat. With only 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and crumbled bacon.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to combine.
6. Top with cooked corn and cherry tomato mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the smoky goodness of bacon and the sweetness of raspberry vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup raspberry vinaigrette (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, bacon, and red onion.
2. If using feta, sprinkle it on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle raspberry vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including prep time)
Spinach, Bacon, and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of spinach, crispy bacon, and a tangy lemon tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, spinach leaves, and crumbled bacon.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach Salad with Bacon, Chickpeas, and Feta Cheese
A refreshing and savory salad that combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the smoky goodness of bacon, the nutty taste of chickpeas, and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, and chickpeas.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Salad with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette
This salad combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, all tied together with a rich and tangy warm vinaigrette. Perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons warm bacon vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Warm Bacon Vinaigrette:
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle warm bacon vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach, Bacon, and Cranberry Salad with Orange Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries and orange with the smokiness of bacon and the earthy taste of spinach. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach, crumbled bacon, and cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spinach Salad with Bacon, Sunflower Seeds, and Ranch Dressing
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this spinach salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion. The crispy bacon, nutty sunflower seeds, and tangy ranch dressing bring out the best in fresh baby spinach leaves.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach leaves.
2. Top the spinach with crumbled bacon and sunflower seeds.
3. Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a salad!
Summary
Discover the perfect combination of flavors with these 20 delicious spinach salad recipes featuring crispy bacon and tangy feta cheese. From classic pairings like warm spinach salads with balsamic dressing to unique twists like loaded spinach salads with eggs, avocado, and candied pecans, there’s something for everyone. With a range of dressings from honey mustard vinaigrette to creamy parmesan, you’ll find the perfect accompaniment to your favorite spinach salad ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory flavors, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
