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Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad

Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad for Festive Flavor Bliss

This Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish perfect for festive gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 6 cups Fresh baby spinach Kale can be a fantastic substitute.
  • ¼ cup Sliced almonds Consider toasting them for enhanced flavor.
  • ½ cup Dried cranberries Feel free to replace with raisins or chopped fresh apples.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons White wine vinegar Apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar Red wine vinegar can also be used.
  • 1 tablespoon White sugar Try reducing the amount or using honey.
  • ¼ cup Olive oil Avocado oil makes a wonderful alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Agave syrup is a great vegan alternative.
  • 1 unit Finely minced shallot Green onion can be a substitute.
For the Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds You can use poppy seeds alone for a twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Poppy seeds Optional; omit for a simpler dressing.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • skillet
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of white sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves, which should take about 30 seconds. Gradually drizzle in ¼ cup of olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Add 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 finely minced shallot, and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, mixing until smooth and well combined.
  2. Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Once hot, add ¼ cup of sliced almonds, stirring frequently for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and aromatic. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning; remove from the skillet and let cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, place 6 cups of fresh baby spinach, ensuring it’s clean and dry. Add the toasted almonds and ½ cup of dried cranberries to the greens. Using your hands or utensils, gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
  4. Just before serving the salad, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure every leaf and ingredient is coated. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 50mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Serve the salad right after adding the dressing to maintain crispness.

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