Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is all about balance. The baby spinach provides a fresh, leafy base, while the toasted almonds and dried cranberries bring texture and sweetness. The sesame seed dressing, with its mix of vinegars, honey, and sesame seeds, ties everything together with a slightly nutty, tangy finish. It’s easy to prepare, and the flavors are light but satisfying, making it a perfect choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 16 oz baby spinach
• 1 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 cup dried cranberries

Sesame Seed Dressing:

• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons white sugar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon finely minced shallot
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by toasting the sliced almonds and sesame seeds. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
2. In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries. Toss to combine.
3. For the sesame seed dressing, whisk together the white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, white sugar, honey, and finely minced shallot in a small bowl until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk to emulsify the dressing.
5. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and, if using, the poppy seeds.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss to coat the spinach, almonds, and cranberries evenly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 5 minutes (for toasting almonds and sesame seeds)
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Nuts and Seeds: Feel free to swap the sliced almonds for walnuts, pecans, or cashews. You can also experiment with different seeds like sunflower or chia.
• Fruit Options: If cranberries are out of season, try adding dried cherries, raisins, or even fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries.
• Add Protein: For a more filling salad, you can add grilled chicken, salmon, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The salad ingredients (spinach, almonds, cranberries) can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dressing should also be stored separately in a jar for up to a week.
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, and the dressing should be added just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the ingredients (like the sesame seeds and almonds) are not processed with gluten.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is vegan as long as you skip the honey in the dressing and substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, adding cheese like feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan would add a lovely richness to the salad. Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly.

How long can I store leftovers?

The salad ingredients (spinach, almonds, cranberries) should be stored separately from the dressing, and the salad should be eaten within 1-2 days for best freshness.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

While fresh cranberries would provide a tart contrast, dried cranberries are sweeter and work better in this salad. If using fresh, you may want to add a touch more honey to balance the tartness.

Can I substitute the white wine vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute the white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar if needed, but it may slightly alter the flavor.

Can I use another type of greens?

Yes, you can substitute spinach with arugula, mixed greens, or kale, depending on your preference.

How do I toast the sesame seeds?

Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

How do I prevent the spinach from wilting?

To prevent the spinach from wilting, wait to dress the salad until just before serving.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad is a delightful, simple dish that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients. With its combination of crunchy almonds, chewy cranberries, and a rich sesame seed dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Whether as a side dish or a light lunch, it’s quick to prepare and sure to be a hit.

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