Spinach Salad Deluxe

4 slices French bread or baguette
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
2-3 green onions, sliced
6-8 good quality olives, such as Kalamata or Picholines
1 to 2 bunches fresh, tender spinach leaves
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon mint leaves, finely minced
2 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar
crumbled feta cheese, about 4-6 oz., optional
1 orange, sliced, for garnish

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Brush the bread slices with some of the olive oil. Cut into chunks and place on baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until crisp and dry. Set aside. In large bowl, combine the spinach leaves which have been washed and spun dry, and torn into pieces, with the onions, olives, garlic, and mint leaves. Toss in the cheese crumbles and add the vinegar. Heat the remaining olive oil in a glass measuring cup on high for 1 minute, or until it is very hot. Quickly pour over the salad and toss. Taste for seasonings, adding more vinegar, salt, and pepper, as needed. Garnish with orange slices. Serve immediately.


Side Dishes Vegetable Dishes Vegetarian