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Discover the Exquisite Silverglade Spinach Salad with Zesty Bacon Dijon Dressing

The Silverglade Spinach Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that perfectly balances fresh, crisp ingredients with a robust, flavorful dressing. Originating from the beloved Crème de Colorado Cookbook, this salad harmonizes the earthy notes of spinach with the sweet burst of red grapes, the creamy richness of Swiss and Cheddar cheeses, and the undeniable savory depth of a homemade bacon Dijon dressing. It’s an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, serving beautifully as an impressive side dish alongside your favorite grilled entrees, or transforming into a satisfyingly light yet incredibly flavorful main course when you’re seeking to brighten up your dinner menu.

This recipe truly shines, embodying the vibrant essence of summer with its fresh ingredients, yet it possesses a timeless appeal that makes it absolutely perfect for any season. Don’t let the thought of a cold winter’s day deter you; this salad brings a burst of freshness and flavor that transcends seasonal boundaries, offering a delightful escape to sunnier days no matter the weather outside. Its versatility and refreshing profile ensure it’s a welcomed addition to any table, any time of the year.

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A Culinary Rediscovery: The Story Behind This Beloved Spinach Salad

This remarkable recipe holds a special place in my collection, a true heirloom passed down through friendships and family. I originally received this recipe many years ago from my dear friend, Lori (or, as I fondly differentiate her, Lori “W.” – it’s quite amusing how many wonderful friends I have named Lori!). She first discovered this particular spinach salad recipe within the pages of the renowned
Crème de Colorado Cookbook. Our connection blossomed during a time when Lori resided in Colorado, before she moved to our town of Elkhorn, and our sons became inseparable best friends in 4th grade. This salad quickly became a staple in my kitchen, a dish I prepared countless times, savoring its unique blend of flavors.

However, as often happens in the bustling rhythm of life and cooking, this gem of a recipe somehow slipped to the back of my mind. It wasn’t until recently, when I reached out to my wonderful readers to inquire about the types of recipes they were most eager to try for the upcoming summer season, that its memory was rekindled. The response was overwhelmingly clear: salads were the number one request! This collective enthusiasm for fresh, vibrant greens immediately brought the Silverglade Spinach Salad back to the forefront of my thoughts, prompting me to dive into my old recipe card box for a nostalgic reunion.

Exploring More Refreshing Salad Creations

In response to the popular demand for delightful salads, I recently shared my highly acclaimed
Pea Salad with Cauliflower. This vibrant and surprisingly flavorful salad has already garnered rave reviews for its crisp texture and delightful taste, proving to be a perfect addition to any meal.

And the salad excitement doesn’t stop there! Next week, prepare yourselves for an absolutely fantastic Taco Salad recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. What makes this particular Taco Salad even more exciting is that it’s designed to be served in homemade, crispy
Air Fryer Taco Salad Bowls, adding an extra layer of crunch and fun to your meal. So, definitely stay tuned for that one – it’s going to be a game-changer!

Just in time for those festive 4th of July picnics and backyard barbecues, I recently updated my classic
Mom’s Macaroni Salad with a brand new recipe video. If you’re looking for a tried-and-true side dish that evokes nostalgic flavors and complements any grilled feast, be sure to check that out – it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser!

The “A-ha!” Moment: Why This Leafy Salad is a Must-Have

After revisiting my readers’ requests, I knew it was absolutely time to bring a fresh, leafy salad back into the spotlight. That’s when it truly hit me! A flash of memory, a delicious whisper from the past: “What about that incredible Silverglade Spinach Salad?!” The thought alone brought a smile to my face. I immediately embarked on a little treasure hunt through my old, well-loved recipe card box, and there it was, tucked away amongst other cherished favorites, waiting to be rediscovered. I genuinely couldn’t believe I had allowed myself to forget about such a delightful creation for so long!

Does that ever happen to you in your own cooking adventures? You find yourself making a particular dish over and over again, eventually falling into a comfortable but somewhat predictable rut. Then, you unconsciously move on to exploring other recipes – in this case, a few years of other culinary explorations – and you momentarily forget just how much you adored that original, beloved dish? It’s a common kitchen phenomenon, but the joy of rediscovery is truly unparalleled. Bringing back this Silverglade Spinach Salad has been a delightful reminder of its enduring appeal and exceptional flavor.

Just last night, for a perfectly satisfying dinner, we indulged in this savory
Ham & Smoked Gouda Quiche. And let me tell you, the Silverglade Spinach Salad paired with it absolutely flawlessly. The fresh, tangy notes of the salad cut through the richness of the quiche, creating a beautifully balanced meal. It was such a winning combination that I mentally made a firm note: this spinach salad is an absolute must-serve the very next time I host a brunch gathering. Its elegance and undeniable deliciousness make it a perfect companion for any hearty or delicate dish, from everyday dinners to special occasions.

The Secret Weapon: An Irresistible Bacon Dijon Dressing

The true star that elevates this Silverglade Spinach Salad to legendary status is undoubtedly its Bacon Dijon Dressing. This dressing isn’t merely a condiment; it’s a meticulously crafted flavor bomb that brings a serious, unforgettable punch to every bite. The savory, crispy bacon pieces infuse the dressing with a smoky depth, perfectly complemented by the sharp, tangy kick of Dijon mustard. A hint of sweetness from brown sugar balances the acidity of apple cider vinegar, while olive oil brings it all together in a smooth, luxurious emulsion. Finely chopped green onions add a fresh, zesty finish, creating a dressing that is both complex and incredibly addictive. It’s this masterful combination that truly sets the Silverglade Spinach Salad apart, making it a favorite for all who taste it.

What You’ll Need to Create This Silverglade Spinach Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to crafting this delightful salad. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make the Silverglade Spinach Salad so memorable.

Fresh Baby Spinach: The tender base of our salad, offering a mild, earthy flavor and vibrant green color.
Swiss and Cheddar Cheese: A dual-cheese blend providing both nutty, slightly sweet notes and a sharp, savory counterpoint.
Red Seedless Grapes: Their crisp texture and sweet-tart juiciness offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and dressing.
Crispy Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty, and utterly irresistible crunch to the dressing.
Green Onions: Provides a delicate, pungent bite that brightens the dressing and the overall salad.
Apple Cider Vinegar: The backbone of the dressing’s tang, offering a subtle fruity acidity.
High-Quality Olive Oil: Creates a smooth, emulsified base for the dressing, carrying all the beautiful flavors.
Dijon Mustard: Delivers a sharp, piquant kick that is essential to the dressing’s characteristic flavor.
Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the acidity and mustard, enhancing the overall depth of the dressing.

Assembling Your Silverglade Spinach Salad Masterpiece: Step-by-Step

Creating this magnificent salad is a simple and rewarding process. The key is to prepare each component with care and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Begin by preparing your sensational bacon Dijon dressing. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the apple cider vinegar, robust olive oil, sharp Dijon mustard, and a touch of brown sugar. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly emulsified and beautifully blended. Once smooth, stir in the crispy crumbled bacon pieces and the finely chopped green onion. Give it another gentle shake to ensure these savory additions are well-distributed. Then, place the dressing in the refrigerator to chill. This crucial step allows the distinct flavors to mingle and truly get acquainted, developing a richer, more harmonious taste profile.

Next, turn your attention to the fresh baby spinach. It’s essential to wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any grit, ensuring a pristine base for your salad. While some traditional recipes might suggest removing stems and tearing larger leaves, I find that with tender baby spinach, the small stems are perfectly fine to leave on and the leaves are already an ideal size. However, if you prefer, feel free to remove the stems and gently tear the leaves to your desired size.

Now, prepare your remaining fresh ingredients. Take your vibrant red seedless grapes and carefully halve them. Then, with precision, julienne cut both your Swiss and Cheddar cheeses into slender strips. This elegant cut ensures that the cheese integrates seamlessly into the salad, providing delicious bursts of flavor without overpowering other elements.

Finally, it’s time to assemble your salad. In a large, spacious salad bowl, combine the washed spinach, the halved red grapes, and the beautifully julienned cheeses. Pour the chilled bacon Dijon dressing generously over these fresh ingredients. Using salad tongs, gently toss everything together until every leaf and piece is lightly coated with the irresistible dressing. You can certainly serve the Silverglade Spinach Salad immediately for instant gratification, but for an even more exquisite experience, I personally recommend placing the tossed salad back into the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes. This brief chill time allows the flavors to truly marry and intensify, creating a more cohesive and refreshing culinary delight.

Explore More Favorite Spinach Salad Varieties

If you’re a fan of the versatility and nutritional benefits of spinach, you’ll love these other fantastic spinach salad recipes, each offering a unique flavor profile:

Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing: A comforting classic where the warmth of the dressing tenderizes the greens and infuses every bite with savory goodness.
Loaded Spinach Salad with Creamy Roasted Garlic Dressing: Packed with delicious additions and a rich, garlicky dressing that’s incredibly satisfying.
Green Salad with Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette: A light and bright option, featuring a herbaceous and zesty dressing perfect for any meal.
Persimmon, Pomegranate & Spinach Salad: A seasonal sensation, combining the unique sweetness of persimmon with the tart burst of pomegranate.
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken: A hearty and satisfying meal-in-one, featuring creamy dressing and lean protein.
Spinach Salad with Raspberries, Goat Cheese and Almonds: A delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures, perfect for a lighter, elegant dish.

Ready to Experience the Silverglade Spinach Salad?

I’m absolutely ready to dig into this incredible Silverglade Spinach Salad, and I hope you are too! Its unique blend of flavors, refreshing ingredients, and that irresistible bacon Dijon dressing truly make it a standout dish. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply looking for a delicious and healthy meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t wait any longer to bring this culinary gem back into your kitchen. Let’s get to the recipe details so you can start creating your own perfect bowl of Silverglade Spinach Salad!

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Silverglade Spinach Salad tossed with dressing

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Print Recipe

Silverglade Spinach Salad

Silverglade Spinach Salad, originating in the Crème de Colorado Cookbook – Spinach, grapes, Swiss and Cheddar cheese with a bacon Dijon dressing.

Prep Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 15 mins

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Crème de Colorado Cookbook, Silverglade Spinach Salad

Servings: 4

Calories: 563 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Ingredients

For the Salad

6 cups baby spinach
6 ounces of each: Swiss and Cheddar Cheese (Julienned)
2 cups red seedless grapes (halved)

For the Dressing

1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
1/2 cup Olive Oil
2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard
2 teaspoons brown sugar
4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
2 Tablespoons green onion (chopped)

Instructions

In a jar, combine apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and brown sugar. Secure the lid and shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified. Stir in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onion. Give it another quick shake and then place the dressing in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors to develop.
In a large salad bowl, add the washed baby spinach, halved red seedless grapes, and the julienned Swiss and Cheddar cheeses.
Pour the prepared bacon Dijon dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together using salad tongs until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve the Silverglade Spinach Salad immediately, or for an enhanced flavor experience, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For optimal flavor, we recommend chilling this salad for approximately 30 minutes before serving, but it is certainly not a strict requirement if you’re short on time.

Nutrition