Name: Festive Cranberry Spinach Salad You Can Make for the Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh baby spinach leaves (can substitute with regular spinach); 1 cup dried cranberries (or fresh cranberries for a tarter alternative); ½ cup sliced or slivered toasted almonds (ensure they are toasted for best flavor); ¼ cup white wine vinegar; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust according to preference); ½ cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey (consider maple syrup for a vegan version); 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots (green onions can be used if out of shallots); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional poppy seeds can be used)

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As I stood in the kitchen, savoring the scent of holiday spices wafting through the air, a bright idea struck me: why not add a fresh touch to our festive spread? Enter my Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad, a vibrant medley that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the tender goodness of baby spinach. Not only does this salad add a pop of color to your holiday table, but it’s also a light yet satisfying option that keeps those heavy holiday dishes in check. With quick prep and a delightful crunch from toasted nuts, you’ll want to make this salad a staple for your celebrations. So, are you ready to whip up something delicious and festive? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Salad a Holiday Must-Have?

Vibrant Colors: Fresh baby spinach, bright cranberries, and toasted nuts create a beautiful visual centerpiece for your holiday table.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this delicious salad ready in just minutes—perfect for busy holiday cooks!

Healthy Alternative: This festive salad is low in calories and packed with vitamins, making it a guilt-free addition to your holiday feast.

Crowd-Pleaser: Its sweet-tangy flavor appeals to both kids and adults! Pair it with your favorite roasted turkey or Chicken Spinach Casserole for a complete meal.

Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap nuts or add cheese for a different flavor twist, making it adaptable for any gathering.

Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad Ingredients

Delight your family with this festive salad!

For the Salad

Baby Spinach – A tender base with mild sweetness; you can substitute with regular spinach if necessary.
Dried Cranberries – Adds a chewy texture and sweet bursts; fresh cranberries can offer a tarter alternative.
Toasted Pecans/Almonds – These nuts provide a crunchy texture and nuttiness; ensure they are toasted for the best flavor.

For the Dressing

Shallots – Introduces a sharp onion flavor; green onions can be used if you’re out of shallots.
White Wine Vinegar & Apple Cider Vinegar – Create a tangy, flavorful dressing base; feel free to use just one type based on your taste preference.
Honey – Balances the dressing with sweetness; consider maple syrup for a vegan version.
Sugar – Sweetens the dressing; adjust according to your preference for sweetness.
Sesame Seeds – Adds delightful crunch and flavor; poppy seeds are a great substitute if needed.

Enjoy this Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad as a vibrant addition to your holiday meals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together ¼ cup of white wine vinegar, ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sugar until fully dissolved. Next, add ½ cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 finely chopped shallots. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds, and optional poppy seeds, until the mixture is well emulsified and creamy.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 6 cups of fresh baby spinach leaves, ½ cup of sliced or slivered toasted almonds, and 1 cup of dried cranberries. Gently toss these ingredients together to ensure they are evenly mixed, creating a colorful base for your Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad.

Step 3: Dress the Salad
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Use tongs to toss gently, ensuring each leaf of spinach and berry is coated with the sweet-tangy dressing. This step is crucial for maintaining the salad’s freshness and crispness, allowing the flavors to meld without wilting the greens.

Step 4: Serve Immediately
Transfer the dressed salad to a large serving platter or bowl for a festive presentation. For added color and flair, you can sprinkle additional toasted almonds and sesame seeds on top. Serve this vibrant Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad right away to enjoy the combination of textures and flavors at their best!

Expert Tips for the Best Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad

Dress at the Last Minute: Always dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp and fresh.
Perfectly Toasted Nuts: Toast nuts over medium heat until golden, but keep a close eye to prevent burning. This enhances their flavor greatly.
Dressing Separation: If your dressing separates, simply whisk or shake it vigorously before using to ensure it’s well combined for the best flavor.
Pat Dry: After rinsing the spinach, pat it dry thoroughly. This avoids a diluted dressing that won’t cling to the leaves effectively.
Don’t Skip the Shallots: They add a lovely sharpness to the dressing. If you need a substitute, finely chopped green onions work well.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to swap out the nuts or add cheese, like feta, to create a unique twist on your Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezer: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it longer, freeze individual salad components like the cranberries and nuts. This can last up to 3 months.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dressed salad out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and food safety.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; enjoy the salad cold or at room temperature for a refreshing taste experience!

Variations & Substitutions for Festive Cranberry Spinach Salad

Get creative with your festive salad by trying out these delightful twists and swaps that enhance flavor and suit various preferences.

Nuts Swap: Substitute toasted almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile. Both offer a lovely crunch that enhances the salad’s texture.
Vegan Twist: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing for a vegan-friendly version that still retains a touch of sweetness.
Citrus Kick: Replace the dressings with a bright citrus vinaigrette, mixing fresh orange juice and zest for a refreshing zing that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
Creamy Addition: Crumble goat cheese or feta over the top for a creamy richness that balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
Fresh Cranberries: Swap dried cranberries for fresh ones for a tart burst of flavor that adds vibrancy and seasonal freshness to your salad.
Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh herbs, like parsley or mint, to bring in another layer of flavor and a pop of color, making every bite exciting.
Spicy Touch: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cranberries.
Grain Boost: Toss in some cooked quinoa or farro to make this salad more filling, turning it into a nutrient-packed side or main dish that’s perfect for any gathering.

With all these yummy options, you can enjoy your Radish Salad Roasted or even a creamy Egg Pasta Salad as delightful complements!

Make Ahead Options

The Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply whisk together the vinegars, sugar, and remaining dressing ingredients, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The salad ingredients can also be prepped in advance; wash and dry the spinach, and store it in a salad spinner or resealable bag with a paper towel to absorb moisture—this keeps it fresh for up to 2 days. Just remember to combine the salad and dressing right before serving to maintain crispness and flavor. This way, you’ll have a dazzling holiday salad ready in minutes; just toss and serve for a stress-free celebration!

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad

This vibrant addition to your holiday table pairs beautifully with an array of delightful dishes, amplifying your festive feast.

Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy, grilled chicken adds a savory contrast to the salad’s fresh sweetness, making for a balanced meal.
Roasted Turkey: This classic holiday centerpiece enhances the salad’s flavors; the herbs and spices complement the tangy cranberries beautifully.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes provide a satisfying texture that tempers the salad’s crispness, offering a well-rounded plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Subtly sweet and vibrant, honey-glazed carrots introduce an elegant touch that mirrors the festive spirit of your salad.
Stuffing: A savory stuffing can evoke heartwarming memories, perfectly complementing the bright notes of the salad for a classic holiday pairing.
Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced mulled wine pairs perfectly, enhancing the festive atmosphere and accentuating the salad’s sweetness with its rich flavors.
Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note! The spices in pumpkin pie contrast beautifully with the salad’s freshness, making for a delightful finish.

Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the salad?
Absolutely! When selecting baby spinach, look for vibrant green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. Similarly, if you’re using dried cranberries, choose ones that have a glossy appearance and no hard or shriveled bits. If opting for fresh cranberries, pick those that are firm and plump, avoiding any mushy or bruised ones.

How should I store the leftover salad?
To enjoy your Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad at its best, store any leftover undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve; this keeps the spinach crisp and prevents wilting!

Can I freeze components of this salad?
Yes, you can! While the dressed salad won’t freeze well, you can freeze components separately. Place dried cranberries and toasted nuts in airtight bags, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use, simply thaw them and add them to fresh spinach.

What should I do if my dressing separates?
Very common! If your dressing separates, simply whisk or shake it vigorously before using. This will help recombine the ingredients and restore that lovely emulsion. You can do this in a jar or bowl to get a smooth, creamy dressing again!

Are any of the ingredients allergy-friendly or vegan?
Definitely! If you’re addressing allergies or dietary preferences, you can easily adjust this recipe. The salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup in the dressing. Be sure to check your nut choices for any tree nut allergies as well.

How can I avoid the salad becoming soggy before serving?
To keep your salad fresh and crisp, dress it just before serving. Pat the spinach dry thoroughly after rinsing it, as excess moisture can dilute the dressing and lead to a soggy turnout. It’s all about freshness when it comes to salads!