The Ultimate Crispy Bacon & Egg Spinach Salad with Tangy Sweet Dressing

Spinach Salad with crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and water chestnuts

Prepare to fall in love with a recipe that is truly a showstopper: my Superb Spinach Salad! This isn’t just any spinach salad; it’s a vibrant, fresh, and incredibly flavorful dish that has become a beloved classic among my friends and family. Its simplicity belies a depth of taste and texture that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Imagine tender baby spinach leaves providing a gentle base, perfectly complemented by savory, crunchy bacon, crisp water chestnuts, and protein-packed hard-boiled eggs. All of these wonderful elements are brought together by a bright, sweet, and tangy dressing so irresistible, you might just be tempted to sip it with a straw!

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing addition to a spring gathering, a hearty side dish for a winter feast, or a light yet satisfying lunch, this spinach salad fits every occasion. I first discovered this gem at a lively Christmas party in Los Angeles, and it quickly became a personal obsession. Its versatility and make-ahead convenience make it an ideal choice for entertaining or simply enjoying a delicious, wholesome meal at home.

After sampling countless spinach salad recipes over the years, I can confidently say that this particular version is “THE ONE” that consistently delivers. It’s perfectly balanced, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Get ready to experience a spinach salad that truly works and will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Why This Spinach Salad Will Become Your New Favorite

There are many reasons why this Superb Spinach Salad stands out from the rest. It’s more than just a mix of greens; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors designed to impress:

Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The dressing is the secret weapon here. Its unique blend of sweet and tangy notes, with a surprising hint of ketchup, creates an addictive taste that perfectly coats every ingredient.
Satisfying Textures: From the tender spinach and crispy bacon to the chewy hard-boiled eggs and crunchy water chestnuts, each bite offers a delightful textural contrast.
Incredibly Versatile: Serve it as an elegant appetizer, a robust side dish, or a light main course. It complements a wide array of entrees, from grilled meats to seafood.
Effortless to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad comes together quickly, even for novice cooks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The dressing and many components can be prepped in advance, making assembly a breeze just before serving. This is a huge bonus for busy hosts or meal planners.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its universal appeal ensures it’s always a hit at potlucks, family dinners, and holiday gatherings.

The Story Behind My Obsession: A Christmas Party Revelation

My journey with this Superb Spinach Salad began unexpectedly. It was at a festive Christmas party in Los Angeles, surrounded by good company and an abundance of delicious food. Amidst the usual holiday fare, a particular salad caught my eye. One bite, and I was instantly captivated. The combination of flavors and textures was unlike any spinach salad I had tasted before. I immediately sought out the host, begging for the recipe. It turned out to be a cherished family recipe, and I was thrilled to get my hands on it. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected it, ensuring it consistently delivers that same “wow” factor I experienced that evening. Now, I’m delighted to share my perfected version with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.

Andiamo a cucina! Let’s get to the kitchen!

For this Superb Spinach Salad, gather up the following ingredients:

Spinach Salad Ingredients: A Detailed Look

Crafting the perfect spinach salad begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best:

Fresh Baby Spinach: The star of our show! Opt for tender baby spinach leaves rather than larger, tougher varieties. Baby spinach is naturally sweet, delicate, and doesn’t require any chopping by your guests, making for a more enjoyable eating experience. I highly recommend using pre-washed bags of spinach with stems already removed for ultimate convenience. This saves valuable prep time and ensures your salad is ready in minutes. Look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting or yellowing.
Thick-Cut Bacon: This isn’t just a topping; it’s a flavor powerhouse. Invest in the best quality, thick-cut bacon you can find. The richer flavor and meatier texture will elevate the entire salad. When purchasing, look for strips that are mostly red meat with less white fat, indicating a higher lean meat content. While the recipe suggests 8 strips, feel free to cook more if you love extra crispy, salty bacon bits – they truly make a difference!
Water Chestnuts: These mild-flavored aquatic vegetables provide a fantastic, crisp crunch that beautifully contrasts the soft spinach. They are excellent at absorbing the tangy dressing, adding another layer of moist flavor to each bite. Look for them canned in the international aisle of your grocery store. Drain them well before adding to the salad.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: A non-negotiable for me and a particular favorite of my husband! Hard-boiled eggs add a creamy richness, a satisfying chewiness, and a boost of protein, making the salad more substantial. Ensure they are perfectly cooked – not too runny, not too rubbery – and diced into bite-sized pieces for easy distribution.
Onion (for the dressing): A grated onion is crucial for the dressing’s signature tangy and slightly pungent flavor. It blends seamlessly into the dressing, providing a savory depth without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you enjoy the visual appeal and a milder onion flavor in the salad itself, consider thinly slicing some red onion to sprinkle on top.
Ketchup: Yes, you read that right! Ketchup might seem like an unconventional ingredient for a salad dressing, but trust me, it’s the secret ingredient that gives this dressing its crazy-delicious, complex sweet-and-tangy profile. It adds a subtle umami and a vibrant color that you won’t want to skip.
Vinegar and Oil: The classic base for any vinaigrette. For this recipe, apple cider vinegar brings a fruity tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the dressing. Pair it with a good quality vegetable or canola oil. These oils have a neutral flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine.
Sugar: This salad is not a KETO recipe, and the sugar is absolutely essential. It provides the necessary sweetness to balance the tartness of the vinegar and the savory notes of the ketchup and onion, creating that wonderfully complex and addictive flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: The fundamental seasonings that tie all the flavors together and make them pop! Always taste and adjust to your preference.

You’ll find the complete recipe with precise measurements in the recipe card below.

Bella’s Pro Tip for Efficiency:

To make assembling and serving your Superb Spinach Salad even faster, prepare the dressing ahead of time. Simply whisk all dressing ingredients together and store it in a jar with a tight-fitting lid or a covered plastic container in the refrigerator. The dressing will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, allowing you to quickly toss your salad whenever inspiration strikes!

Here’s one of my latest videos for this Spinach Salad, showing you exactly how it’s done:

Creative Variations & Customizations: Making It Your Own

One of the best qualities of this spinach salad is its flexibility. Like any great recipe, it serves as a fantastic foundation for your creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment and tailor it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Here are several delicious ways you can customize your Superb Spinach Salad:

Elevate with Nuts: Adding nuts introduces an extra layer of crunch and rich flavor. Sweet praline pecans are an absolute dream in this salad, offering a candied sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing. Plain slivered almonds provide a more subtle nutty flavor and crisp texture. Other fantastic options include toasted walnuts, cashews, or even candied walnuts for a gourmet touch.
Infuse with Fruit: Fruit can add a wonderful sweetness and refreshing burst to your spinach salad. Consider tossing in some dried cranberries for a chewy tartness, or dried cherries for a deeper, sweet-tart note. When in season, fresh slices of crisp pears or apples offer a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. And, of course, during strawberry season, vibrant red strawberry slices are a classic and delicious addition to any spinach salad, making it feel extra special and elegant.
Experiment with Dressings: While our signature sweet and tangy dressing is a highlight, spinach is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many other dressings. A classic balsamic vinaigrette offers a rich, slightly sweet, and acidic counterpoint. For a fruitier twist, a raspberry and balsamic vinaigrette is a fantastic choice, adding a bright, tangy sweetness. You can find excellent quality ready-made options in most grocery stores or online. Many people also adore the creamy texture and mild sweetness of poppy seed dressing with spinach, which would be another excellent alternative.
Add Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese would add a creamy, tangy element. Shaved Parmesan also works wonderfully for a salty, umami kick.
Include Other Vegetables: Thinly sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes halved, sliced mushrooms, or even blanched asparagus tips can enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile.
Boost Protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. Canned chickpeas or black beans can also add a vegetarian protein boost.

What to Serve with Your Superb Spinach Salad

This Spinach Salad’s incredible versatility means it complements a vast array of main courses and culinary situations. As I mentioned, its debut for me was at a grand Christmas party, demonstrating its suitability for entertaining large groups. Beyond festive gatherings, I frequently prepare it for intimate holiday dinners, such as Easter, for quiet weekend meals with my husband, or even as a delightful and satisfying lunch for myself. Its balanced flavors and textures make it a perfect pairing for many entrees, enhancing the meal without overpowering it. Here are some of my top recommendations:

Perfect Prime Rib with Au Jus: The richness of prime rib finds a wonderful balance with the freshness and tang of this spinach salad.
Savory Pork Chops in Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlicky, buttery notes of the pork chops are beautifully cut by the bright dressing of the salad.
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon: A light, flaky salmon fillet benefits from the crisp texture and vibrant flavor of the salad, creating a wholesome and elegant meal.
Delicate and Delicious Thai Salmon: The unique flavors of Thai-inspired salmon are surprisingly harmonious with the salad’s robust profile.
Grilled Ginger & Garlic Turkey Breasts: (State Fair Blue Ribbon Winner) The savory, aromatic turkey provides a fantastic protein anchor for the refreshing salad.
Pan-Seared Steaks: A classic steak dinner is always elevated with a fresh, vibrant side salad like this one.
Perfect Blackened Redfish: The bold, spicy flavors of blackened fish are wonderfully balanced by the cool, crisp salad.
Pasta Dishes: A lighter side for heavier pasta dishes, offering a refreshing contrast to rich sauces.
Sandwiches & Wraps: Elevate a simple lunch sandwich or wrap by serving this salad alongside it instead of chips.

This spinach salad is truly a versatile companion, capable of enhancing everything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant holiday feasts. Its appealing presentation and irresistible taste make it a staple for any occasion.

Craving More Freshness? Try These Other Salad Favorites!

If you’ve fallen in love with the freshness and versatility of this Superb Spinach Salad, you’re in for a treat with my other delightful salad recipes. There’s always something new to explore, perfect for any season or occasion:

Spring Pea and Asparagus Salad: A light and vibrant salad bursting with the delicate flavors of spring.
Strawberry Spinach Salad: Another fantastic spinach creation, featuring sweet strawberries and a delightful balsamic vinaigrette.
Asian Chopped Salad: An easy, healthy, and flavorful salad with an irresistible Asian-inspired dressing.
Classic Greek Salad: A timeless favorite, packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.
Roasted Beet Balsamic Salad: Earthy roasted beets paired with a tangy balsamic dressing for a sophisticated side.

Or dive into my extensive collection of over 70 Best Salad Recipes for even more fresh ideas!

Buon Appetito! Enjoy your meal!

The Ultimate Spinach Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews

Author: Roz | La Bella Vita Cucina

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients

Units

Scale

For the Salad:

1– 2 bags of fresh baby spinach, cleaned and stems removed
8 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut up into small pieces
2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
1 small can of sliced water chestnuts, drained

For the Dressing:

1 cup vegetable or canola oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup ketchup
2/3 cup sugar

Cook Mode

Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Make the Dressing:

Combine Liquids: Add the vegetable or canola oil and apple cider vinegar to a medium-sized mixing bowl. These form the base of your tangy dressing.
Add Grated Onion: Carefully add the grated onion. Grating ensures the onion flavor is evenly distributed without large chunks, providing a smooth texture to the dressing.
Incorporate Sugar: Sprinkle in the sugar. This is crucial for balancing the acidity of the vinegar and the savory notes, creating that signature sweet and tangy profile.
Add Ketchup: Introduce the ketchup to the mixture. This secret ingredient adds a unique depth of flavor and a beautiful hue to the dressing.
Blend Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture for about a minute, or until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing is smooth and emulsified. This ensures a consistent flavor and texture.

Make the Spinach Salad:

Prepare the Base: Place the fresh baby spinach in a large serving platter or bowl. Ensure it’s loosely packed, allowing room for other ingredients.
Add Water Chestnuts: Scatter the drained sliced water chestnuts over the spinach. Their mild flavor and satisfying crunch are a perfect complement.
Distribute Bacon: Evenly scatter the crispy, chopped bacon pieces across the salad. The salty, smoky flavor is a highlight.
Hold the Eggs (for now): It’s important NOT to add the hard-boiled eggs at this stage to prevent them from breaking apart during the initial toss.
Dress Lightly: Add the prepared salad dressing, but only enough to lightly coat the spinach leaves. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
First Toss: Gently toss the salad to ensure the dressing, spinach, water chestnuts, and bacon are well combined.
Add Half the Eggs: NOW, add approximately half of the diced hard-boiled eggs.
Second Gentle Toss: Gently toss the salad one more time, just enough to distribute the first half of the eggs without mashing them.
Serve Immediately (with remaining eggs): Plate the salad and then sprinkle the remaining diced hard-boiled eggs on top as a garnish. Serve right away to enjoy its freshest textures and flavors.

Buon Appetito! Enjoy this delightful Superb Spinach Salad!

Roz xo

Notes on Making Ahead & Storage

One of the many benefits of this Superb Spinach Salad is how easily it can be prepared in advance, ensuring maximum freshness and saving you precious time when it’s time to serve. To prevent the spinach leaves from wilting and to keep all components at their best, prepare the salad in three separate parts:

Prepare the Dressing: Make the dressing following the instructions and store it in a jar with a tight-fitting lid or a covered plastic container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Shaking it vigorously before use will re-emulsify the ingredients.
Assemble the Salad Base (without eggs): In a large serving bowl or platter, combine the fresh baby spinach, cooked bacon pieces, and drained water chestnuts. Do NOT add the eggs at this stage. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate.
Dice the Eggs Separately: Hard-boil and dice your eggs, then place them in a small, lidded container. Keep this refrigerated separately from the salad base.

At the time of serving, follow these simple steps for perfect assembly:

First, retrieve your prepared salad base (spinach, bacon, water chestnuts).
Pour the desired amount of dressing over the salad base (without any eggs added yet). Start with a moderate amount; you can always add more if needed.
Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure the dressing beautifully coats all the spinach, water chestnuts, and bacon.
Then, add half of the diced eggs to the salad bowl.
Gently stir once more to incorporate these eggs without crushing them.
Finally, add the remaining half of the eggs as a final flourish, either by gently stirring them in or sprinkling them on top for a more decorative finish.

This method ensures that every component maintains its ideal texture and flavor, resulting in a perfectly crisp and delicious spinach salad every time. For a visual guide and even more clarity, be sure to see the video to better understand how to prepare this yummy spinach salad recipe!