Description
Make your holiday table shine with this vibrant and refreshing Delicious Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad—a festive, nutrient-rich dish that’s bursting with color and texture. With fresh baby spinach, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted almonds tossed in a light vinaigrette, this salad is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re after quick holiday appetizers, healthy side dishes, or easy Christmas dinner ideas, this easy recipe is a must-try. It’s gluten-free, customizable, and comes together in minutes—ideal for everything from dinner ideas to healthy snack options.
Ingredients
6 cups fresh baby spinach
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup whole almonds (optional)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Sea salt to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Place baby spinach in a large mixing bowl. Ensure leaves are dry for the best texture.
2. Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool.
3. In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, honey (or syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well mixed.
4. Add toasted almonds, dried cranberries, whole almonds (if using), and crumbled feta (if using) to the spinach.
5. Pour vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.
6. Sprinkle sea salt on top if desired and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
Always toast the almonds—this simple step brings deep flavor and added crunch.
Make the vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance for easier holiday prep.
Keep salad components separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Christmas salad, holiday recipe, spinach salad, healthy holiday sides, quick dinner ideas