Begin by cooking bacon over medium heat until nice and crispy (to your liking anywhere from 7-10 mins)

Transfer bacon to plate to cool, drain approximately 3 tbsp bacon fat into a small saucepan. Do not clean the fat from the large pan!

Add the asparagus to the warm pan and saute for 8-10 minutes.

Meanwhile, place baby spinach onto a platter or bowl.

Heat up the small saucepan with the bacon grease over med heat, add vinegar, Dijon, and honey. Whisk until smooth, and reduce heat but keep the dressing warm.

Add asparagus to the spinach once it's finished cooking, then top with apple.

Crumble bacon and goat cheese (if using), and add to salad.

Top with pine nuts.

Complete the salad by drizzling the warm dressing.

Serve immediately.