A quick, brain-healthy salad combining fresh spinach, crunchy walnuts, and a simple lemon-Dijon dressing, rich in nutrients supporting cognitive function.

A simple MIND Diet recipe built around everyday ingredients that support a brain-healthy eating pattern.
Brain Care Score: 80 / 100
A practical Alzheimer’s Weekly score based on MIND-style ingredients and limits on less brain-friendly ingredients. (This is an editorial nutrition guide, not medical advice.)
Why it scores well:
- Includes leafy greens
- Includes nuts
- Uses olive oil
Keep track of brain-friendly meals over time and optionally compare them with memory check-ins.

Spinach and Walnut Salad with Lemon-Dijon Dressing
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A quick, brain-healthy salad combining fresh spinach, crunchy walnuts, and a simple lemon-Dijon dressing, rich in nutrients supporting cognitive function.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Servings: 2
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 167
Ingredients
- 85 g spinach fresh, washed and dried
- 28 g walnuts chopped, toasted if preferred for extra flavor
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin for best flavor and antioxidants
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed for brightness
- 1 tsp mustard Dijon style adds mild spice and flavor depth
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground for seasoning
- 0.25 tsp sea salt adjust based on taste preference
Method
- Place washed spinach in a medium salad bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, black pepper, and sea salt until emulsified.
- Drizzle dressing over the spinach and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top just before serving for crunch and brain-healthy fats.
Nutrition
Notes
This salad is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for caregivers needing simple yet nourishing meals. Spinach supplies antioxidants and folate supporting brain health; walnuts provide omega-3 fats linked to cognitive benefits. The fresh lemon-Dijon dressing brightens flavors without added sugar or processed ingredients, making it suitable for older adults with normal chewing ability.









