Spinach, White Bean, And Bacon Salad With Maple-Mustard Dressing

Description

Source: Cooking Light Annual Recipes 2004 - Cooking Light Magazine

Maple syrup is a good sweetener for salad dressings. Here, it gives body to the dressing and pairs well with the creamy beans and salty bacon. Grilled salmon fillets are a fine accompaniment to the salad.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 5 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled (drained)
• 2 (7-ounce) packages fresh baby spinach

Directions

1. Combine first 6 ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring with a whisk; microwave at HIGH 1 minute or until hot.
2. Place beans in a 2-cup glass measure; microwave at HIGH 1 minute or until hot.
3. Combine onions, bell pepper, bacon, and spinach in a large bowl.
4. Add syrup mixture and beans; toss well to combine.
5. Serve immediately.

Yield: 8 servings (serving size: about 1 3/4 cups)