Cranberry Salad
Cranberry salad is a refreshing and festive dish that combines tart cranberries with crisp greens and a hint of citrus. Ideal for holiday gatherings or as a light summer side, this salad bursts with flavor and color. The mix of textures, from crunchy nuts to juicy fruits, makes it a crowd favorite. Easy to prepare, this salad will surely impress guests and family alike!
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh cranberries
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
Servings: 4 | Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Nutritional Value
This salad provides approximately 180 calories, 5g protein, 15g fat, 12g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber per serving (1 cup).
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water and drain.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach and mixed greens.
3. Add the fresh cranberries to the greens.
4. Slice the orange into thin rounds and add to the bowl.
5. Chop the walnuts and sprinkle over the salad.
6. Crumble feta cheese on top of the mixture.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and honey.
8. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh cranberries with dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor, or use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or pecans. Additionally, goat cheese can be used instead of feta for a creamier texture.
Serving and Pairings
This cranberry salad pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, grilled chicken, or as a refreshing side to a holiday feast. It also complements dishes like quinoa and couscous salads.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best consumed fresh, as the greens can wilt. This salad shouldn’t be frozen due to its fresh ingredients.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overdressing the salad can make it soggy.
- Using stale nuts will affect the flavor and crunch.
- Not rinsing cranberries can leave unwanted residue.
- Forgetting to adjust seasoning can lead to blandness.
- Using too much citrus can overpower other flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of greens for added flavor.
- Chill your salad bowl before serving for a refreshing touch.
- Experiment with different fruits based on season.
- Make the dressing in advance for better flavor integration.
FAQs
Can I make cranberry salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but dress it just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
What can I add for sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter salad, consider adding sliced apples, pears, or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Is cranberry salad healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Frozen cranberries can be used, but they should be thawed and drained before adding to the salad to avoid excess moisture.
What is the best way to serve cranberry salad?
Serve it chilled as a side dish, or as a light lunch topped with grilled chicken or shrimp.
Conclusion
Cranberry salad is a versatile and delicious dish that brings vibrant flavors and essential nutrients to your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a healthy side, this recipe is sure to delight everyone. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes in every bite!
Cranberry Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1 orange sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach and mixed greens.
- Add the fresh cranberries to the greens.
- Slice the orange into thin rounds and add to the bowl.
- Chop the walnuts and sprinkle over the salad.
- Crumble feta cheese on top of the mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and honey.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.