Spinach Salad with Warm Maple Dressing

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Ingredients

  • 12 cups torn mature spinach leaves or baby spinach

  • 3 mini cucumbers, sliced on the bias

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 medium shallot, finely chopped

  • ¼ cup cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

  • ¼ cup shredded smoked cheese, such as Gouda or Cheddar

  • ¼ cup chopped pecans, toasted

Directions

  1. Toss spinach and cucumbers in a large serving bowl.

  2. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add shallot and cook, stirring often, until softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Add vinegar and maple syrup; bring to a boil. Stir in salt and pepper.

  3. Immediately pour the dressing over the spinach and cucumbers. Toss and sprinkle with cheese and pecans. Serve immediately.