This Cranberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing and flavorful mix of baby spinach, dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a sweet and tangy homemade dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a tasty side dish. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a standout dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
The Story Behind Jamie’s Cranberry Spinach Salad
Spinach salads have been a popular choice for healthy and delicious meals for decades. What sets Jamie’s Cranberry Spinach Salad apart is the perfect harmony between the sweet, tart dried cranberries and the rich, creamy feta cheese. Paired with fresh baby spinach, this salad is a favorite for those who want a light but filling dish with a mix of textures. The addition of a homemade dressing that blends sweetness and tang makes this salad a perfect combination of health and flavor.
Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Baby Spinach
Baby spinach is the foundation of this salad, providing a mild flavor and tender texture, along with a boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Pro Tip: Make sure to wash and dry the spinach thoroughly to avoid any extra moisture in the salad.
Dried Cranberries
Dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness and a slight tartness, complementing the savory elements in the salad.
- Substitution Tip: You can use dried cherries or raisins as an alternative if cranberries aren’t available.
Feta Cheese
Feta cheese brings a tangy, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cranberries and the earthiness of the spinach.
- Substitution Tip: If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or blue cheese also work well in this salad.
Walnuts
Walnuts provide crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the other ingredients.
- Substitution Tip: You can swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
How to Make Jamie’s Cranberry Spinach Salad
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 6 cups baby spinach, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
- In a large salad bowl, add the baby spinach, dried cranberries, feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and red onion.
Step 3: Toast the Walnuts
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the walnuts.
- Toast the walnuts for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Toss the Salad
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the salad immediately. You can garnish with extra feta cheese or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Spinach Salad is perfect as a light meal on its own or as a side dish with heartier mains like grilled chicken, salmon, or pork tenderloin. It also pairs well with quinoa, brown rice, or a slice of crusty bread for a more filling meal.
Variations and Add-Ins
Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad
Substitute pecans for the walnuts to add a slightly sweeter, buttery flavor to the salad.
Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad
Add thinly sliced apples or pears for a fruity, crisp texture that complements the other ingredients.
Vegan Cranberry Spinach Salad
For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese and use a vegan honey substitute like maple syrup in the dressing. You can also add avocado for extra creaminess.
Dietary Adaptations
Precise Diet Classifications:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Vegetarian: This salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat.
- Vegan: Make it vegan by using a honey substitute like maple syrup and omitting the feta cheese.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Reduce the amount of dried cranberries and honey for a lower-carb version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jamie’s Cranberry Spinach Salad Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
How do I store leftover salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are more tart and may not provide the same sweetness as dried. If you want to use fresh cranberries, consider roasting them with a little honey or sugar first.
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