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Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing

Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing

This spinach salad with warm bacon dressing is a timeless classic made with fresh spinach, crispy bacon, and a sweet-tangy dressing poured warm over the greens. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect as a side dish or light meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups fresh baby spinach washed and dried
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion finely diced
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar or to taste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs sliced (optional)

Method
 

  1. Place spinach in a large serving bowl and set aside.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels.
  3. Reserve about 2 tablespoons bacon drippings in the skillet.
  4. Add diced onion to the drippings and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
  5. Stir in vinegar and sugar; warm gently without boiling. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Sprinkle bacon and optional eggs over the spinach.
  7. Pour warm dressing over spinach and toss gently until slightly wilted.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Spinach must be completely dry to prevent watering down the dressing.
  • Pour dressing while warm, not hot, to avoid over-wilting.
  • Best enjoyed immediately; leftovers do not store well once dressed.
  • Maple syrup can be used instead of sugar for a deeper flavor.