Get ready to revolutionize your salad game with this incredible Spinach Salad with Apple, Cranberries, and Walnuts! Imagine a perfect harmony of crisp spinach, sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts that will transform your ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. This isn't just a salad - it's a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more with every single bite. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a stunning side dish, or a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any dirt or grit. Once clean, gently pat the spinach dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
- Prepare the apple by rinsing it under cold water. Slice the apple into thin wedges or bite-sized pieces, discarding the core. If desired, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- In a large salad bowl, add the cleaned spinach as the base for your salad. Layer the sliced apples on top of the spinach.
- Next, sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly over the spinach and apple mixture. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Add the chopped walnuts to the salad. If you prefer, you can toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, which will enhance their flavor.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. The feta will add a creamy texture and a salty flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. This will be your dressing. You can adjust the ratio of olive oil to vinegar according to your taste preference.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed.
- Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your Spinach Salad with Apple, Cranberries, and Walnuts as a refreshing side dish or a light meal!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, toast your walnuts before adding them to the salad. This simple step enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Choose a crisp, slightly tart apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to provide the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Prep your ingredients just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp. Soggy spinach is a salad's worst enemy!
- Feel free to customize your dressing - try adding a touch of honey or Dijon mustard for extra depth of flavor.
- If you're making this ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this salad into a complete meal.
- Use the freshest ingredients possible - the quality of your produce will make a huge difference in the final taste of your salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
