Skip to main content

Spinach Salad with Pecorino, Pine Nuts, and Currants

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This elegant spinach salad with pecorino, pine nuts, and currants is a masterclass in balancing flavours and textures. The earthy notes of fresh baby spinach provide a crisp base for the salty, sharp Pecorino Romano and the buttery crunch of toasted pine nuts. A homemade balsamic vinaigrette, sweetened naturally with plumped currants, ties everything together with a sophisticated tang. It is a vibrant, vegetarian dish that works beautifully as a light lunch or a refined starter for a dinner party.

Quick to prepare and naturally healthy, this salad is an excellent way to incorporate iron-rich greens into your diet. The combination of savoury cheese and sweet fruit makes it a versatile side dish that pairs exceptionally well with roasted vegetables or crusty sourdough bread. Whether you are hosting guests or looking for a simple mid-week meal, this vibrant salad offers a wonderful mix of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spinach Salad with Pecorino, Pine Nuts, and Currants

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons dried currants

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted, coarsely chopped

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced shallot

  • 1/2 teaspoons sugar

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 6 cups (packed) baby spinach leaves

  • Shaved Pecorino Romano cheese

How to make Spinach Salad with Pecorino, Pine Nuts, and Currants

Whisk first 5 ingredients in small bowl. Whisk in oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss spinach with vinaigrette in large bowl. And cheese and toss.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.