Apple Pecan Feta Spinach Salad with Maple Cider Vinaigrette

Recipe source: CookingClassy by Jaclyn, inspired by Southern Living

Ingredients

• 10 oz baby spinach
• 3 small gala apples or 2 medium , cored and thinly sliced
• 1 cup pecans , toasted
• 4 oz feta cheese , crumbled (don't use the pre-crumbled stuff)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 12 oz bacon , cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1/2 small red onion , sliced into thin strips (optional) Maple-Cider Vinaigrette
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tsp dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

• If using red onion, place slices in a colander and run under warm water for about 10 seconds, tossing once, to remove harsh bite. Drain well.
• In a large salad bowl toss together spinach, apples, pecans, feta, cranberries and optional bacon and red onion. Drizzle desired amount of dressing over salad and toss to evenly coat. Serve immediately after adding dressing.
• For the dressing:
• Add all ingredients to a medium mason jar. Cover with lid and shake to blend well (or alternately just blend well in a bowl with a whisk).