This simple yet satisfying salad is a testament to the power of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With its vibrant colors and bright flavors, it's sure to become a weeknight staple.
The genesis of this recipe lies in a chance encounter at a farmers' market. As I strolled past the vibrant stalls, my eyes were drawn to a bin of plump, sun-ripened tomatoes. Their deep red hue and tantalizing aroma beckoned me to take them home.
Back in my kitchen, I pondered how best to showcase these culinary gems. I had visions of a salad that would be both light and flavorful, a dish that would pay homage to the bounty of summer.
As I searched through my pantry, I stumbled upon a bag of baby spinach. Its tender leaves and mild flavor seemed like the perfect base for my salad. For a touch of crunch, I added sliced almonds, which I toasted to perfection.
To balance the sweetness of the tomatoes, I incorporated some vegan cheese and red onion. The cheese added a savory richness, while the onion provided a sharp bite. For a finishing touch, I sprinkled the salad with fresh parsley, its vibrant green color adding a pop of freshness.
As I whisked together a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, I realized that I had stumbled upon a winning combination. The flavors danced together harmoniously, each ingredient playing its own unique role in this culinary symphony.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 2
Ingredients
10 oz baby spinach, thoroughly washed and dried
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup thinly sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup crumbled vegan cheese (such as tofu feta or nutritional yeast)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, almonds, vegan cheese, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately.
Why It Works
The combination of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, almonds, and vegan cheese creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
The red onion adds a sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the tomatoes and cheese.
The fresh parsley brings a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the salad.
The simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.