Spinach Salad with Warm Maple Dressing

This recipe was found at www.foodnetwork.com

Recipe courtesy of EatingWell.com

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons chopped pecans

1 10 ounce package fresh spinach, torn, or 12 cups baby spinach

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into 1/4 inch slices (we substituted with pear)

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 shallot, finely chopped

1/4 cup cider vinegar

2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Salt & freshly ground pepper to taste

1/4 cup shredded smoked cheese, such as Gouda or Cheddar (we used Gouda)

Directions:

Toast pecans in a small dry skillet over low heat, stirring often, until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and let cool.

Toss spinach and cucumber (or pear) in a salad bowl.

Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add shallot and cook, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add vinegar and maple syrup and bring to a boil. Season with salt and pepper.

Immediately pour the dressing over the spinach and cucumber. Toss well and sprinkle with cheese and toasted pecans.