Greek salad with spinach and eggplant

The simple flavors of this Mediterranean salad showcase the fruity extra-virgin olive oil in the lemon dressing.

Spinach is a good source of iron and calcium, but the oxalic acid it contains prevents their absorption. Vitamin C can help reverse this. So eat spinach with fruits that are high in vitamin C, such as oranges.

Ingredients (Serves 8)

For the vinaigrette:

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano or 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the salad:

1 large eggplant, about 1 1/2 pounds, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 7 cups)
1 pound spinach, stemmed and torn into bite-sized pieces
1 English (hothouse) cucumber, unpeeled, seeded and diced
1 tomato, seeded and diced
1/2 red onion, diced
2 tablespoons pitted, chopped black Greek olives
2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese

Directions

Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and heat to 450 F. Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil cooking spray.

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt and pepper in a small bowl. While whisking, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream until emulsified. Set aside.

Spread the eggplant cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the eggplant with olive oil cooking spray. Roast for 10 minutes. Turn the cubes and roast until softened and lightly golden, 8 to 10 minutes longer. Set aside and let cool completely.

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, cucumber, tomato, onion and cooled eggplant. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to mix well and coat evenly. Divide the salad among individual plates. Sprinkle with the olives and feta. Serve immediately.