Spinach Salad with Bacon, Dates and Feta Dressing

Tip: Read directions completely before preparing.

Ingredients:

For Spinach Salad:

3 slices bacon, chopped

1 bunch fresh spinach (about 3/4 pound), stems discarded and leaves washed well, spun dry, and torn into bite-size pieces

1/2 medium red onion, sliced thin

1/3 cup pitted dates, chopped

For Feta dressing:

1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 2 ounces)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 1/2 tablespoons water

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

For dressing:
In a blender blend together feta, lemon juice, water, and mayonnaise until smooth. With motor running add oil and blend until emulsified.

In a small skillet cook bacon over moderate heat, stirring, until crisp and transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

For Spinach Salad:

In a large bowl toss together spinach, bacon, onion, and dates with feta dressing.

Tip: Feta cheese is best when eaten fresh, so always check the date. If you will not be consuming it immediately, store feta cheese in a brine or milk bath. The milk bath will reduce the saltiness and help keep the cheese moist and mild in flavor.