In my kitchen, this Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad always brings a burst of color and flavor to the table. It’s the perfect dish for holiday gatherings and family dinners. With a delightful blend of fresh spinach, sweet cranberries, and creamy feta, it’s not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or simply looking to brighten up your weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are plenty of reasons to serve this salad at your next celebration. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, allowing you to focus on other dishes without feeling rushed. Plus, the combination of flavors is a crowd-pleaser, making it kid-approved too! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate fresh ingredients into your holiday spread, providing a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
Preparing Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad
Making this delicious salad is a breeze! Here’s what to expect: you’ll be combining fresh ingredients, whipping up a quick dressing, and then tossing it all together for a wonderful mix of flavors and textures.
What You’ll Need
- Fresh spinach
- Dried cranberries
- Sliced almonds
- Feta cheese
- Red onion
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt
- Pepper
Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, if you want a nut-free version, you can skip the almonds!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, feta cheese, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately as a delightful side dish.
The crumbled feta and tart cranberries provide a beautiful contrast to the crisp spinach, making every bite enjoyable!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This salad shines as a side dish, but it can also work as a light lunch on its own. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or wrapped sandwiches. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside your holiday main dish, making it a colorful centerpiece on your table.
How to Store
To keep this salad fresh, it’s best to store the ingredients separately. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If you’ve made the dressing in advance, store it separately as well, and drizzle it on just before serving for the best flavor.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Wash and dry your spinach properly to avoid a watery salad.
- Add the dressing right before serving to keep the spinach crisp and fresh.
- Toast the almonds in a dry skillet for a few minutes for additional flavor and crunch.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun ideas to kick your salad up a notch:
- Swap the feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
- Add some diced apples or pears for extra sweetness.
- For a heartier dish, toss in some grilled chicken or crispy turkey bacon for added protein.
Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 200 | 6 g | 18 g | 14 g | 4 g | 8 g |
This nutritious salad not only tastes great but also nourishes you with vitamins and minerals, making it a superb choice for any gathering! Enjoy creating this colorful dish, and watch it become a star at your holiday table.
