Spinach salad with walnuts

When you are in a rush and need something quick and easy for lunch, you can't go wrong with this spinach salad with walnuts. It's a personal favorite of mine -- perhaps because it has so many ingredients I like -- and I think you'll enjoy it too. For an added treat, go ahead and throw in some dried cranberries, or feta cheese.

Total Time: 10 min.
Prep Time: 10 min.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 4 servings

                                                                                                    photo by Rodney Jeffery, courtesy of www.taste.com

Ingredients:
4 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp. red wine (or balsamic or rice wine) vinegar
Sea salt and ground black pepper (to taste; optional)
1 (10 oz.) package raw baby spinach (about 8 cups)
¼ medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, cut into matchstick-sized pieces
1 medium red bell pepper, cut in thin strips
3 Tbsp. raw walnut pieces

Preparation:
1. Combine oil and vinegar in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper if desired; whisk to blend. Set aside.
2. Combine spinach, onion, carrot, bell pepper, and walnuts in a large bowl; mix well.
3. Drizzle salad with dressing; toss gently to blend.