Warm Spinach & Apple Salad

This is another one of the recipes we got to try a few weeks ago at the Loblaw's livelifewell Blogger/Media event.  I had forgotten how much I enjoy a warm salad... it takes some of the 'starkness' out of a salad, making it more comforting, more like a meal.

I did make a few changes to the original recipe though.  I added some almonds and cranberries, I also adjusted the vinegars... more out of necessity, I ran out of balsamic vinegar tonight (darned heavy dark glass bottles!).  I find it a bit odd that the original recipe states that the apples taste like nectarines this way... they look like nectarines perhaps, but as far as I am concerned, they taste like warm apple-y heaven.

Warm Spinach & Apple Salad
Adapted/Modified from President's Choice
Serves 4

5 oz fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 medium apples, cored and sliced about 1/4 inch thick (I used Macintosh)
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
2 tsp red wine vinegar
4 tsp pure maple syrup
2 tbsp chopped natural almonds
2 tbsp dried cranberries

Place washed spinach in a large bowl.  In a skillet, heat olive oil and then add the apple slices. Cook the apples for 2 or 3 minutes, or until they are starting to soften. Mix together the vinegars and maple syrup in a small bowl.  Add all at once to apples and continue cooking for another minute. Pour over spinach and toss lightly.  Top with almonds and dried cranberries. Serve immediately.

Do you enjoy warm salads?  I've made them before with grilled portobellos and of course, grilled chicken and I'd love to hear some of your ideas.