Baby Spinach Salad With Cherry Balsamic Vinaigrette Reduction

1. 1

   In a heavy saucepan cover lentils with water by 2 inches and simmer until just tender but not falling apart, about 5 minutes. Drain lentils well in a sieve. Rinse lentils under cold running water to stop cooking and drain well. In a bowl toss lentils with 2 tablespoons vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. (Lentils may be made 2 days ahead and chilled, covered. Bring lentils to room temperature before proceeding.)

2. 2

   In a skillet cook bacon over moderate heat until crisp and with tongs transfer to paper towels to drain. Crumble bacon.

3. 3

   In cleaned saucepan heat 2 tablespoons oil over moderate heat until hot but not smoking and cook shallot, stirring, until golden brown. Stir in water, cherries, sugar, dijon mustard, and remaining 6 tablespoons vinegar and simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid is reduced by about half, about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low and whisk in remaining olive oil in a slow stream until emulsified. Season vinaigrette with salt and pepper.

4. 4

   Place 1/3 spinach on each plate and top with an even amount of each topping and roughly 5 tbsp of dressing drizzled on top.

5. 5

   This should make slightly more dressing than you need, place the leftovers in the fridge for later!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

No additional tips available.