Spinach Salad with Bacon, Cheddar and Apple

By Dglmedia

Ingredients

• 9 oz. pkg. baby spinach leaves
• 1 cup (4 oz.) Sargento® ChefStyle Shredded Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• 1 small red apple, such as gala or fuji, chopped
• 4 thick slices applewood smoked bacon, cut crosswise into thin strips
• 1/3 cup minced shallots or sweet onion
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Preparation

Step 1

Combine spinach, cheese and apple in a large bowl.
Cook bacon in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat until crisp. about 7 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel; set aside.
Cook shallots in drippings 3 minutes or until softened.
Add vinegar; bring to a boil and boil 30 seconds.
Add mixture to bowl; toss well. Sprinkle reserved bacon over salad and serve with pepper if desired.
Helpful Tips
Note: For a more wilted salad, add spinach mixture back to skillet or saucepan and toss over medium heat 1 minute.