Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad: 5 Reasons to Love It

December 7, 2025

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Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of dried cranberries, crunchy honey-roasted almonds, and crisp apple slices, all tossed in a zesty apple cider vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for fall and holiday gatherings, balancing fresh greens with a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a healthy lunch, this salad is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

There are countless reasons to adore this healthy apple cranberry salad. First, it’s packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Second, the combination of ingredients provides a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. This spinach apple cranberry salad is also incredibly easy to prepare, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, adding a festive touch to your table. Finally, it can be easily customized with your favorite nuts or cheese, making it versatile enough for any occasion.

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

Gather these items:

1 cup slivered almonds
1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons honey
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon water
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup honey
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 medium clove garlic, finely minced
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
8 cups baby spinach
1 large crisp red apple, quartered, cored, and thinly sliced
½ cup pomegranate arils or seeds

How to Make Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300˚F and line a sheet pan with foil. Combine slivered almonds, olive oil, honey, and kosher salt on the sheet pan, stirring to mix. Bake for 5 minutes, then stir the almonds. Repeat baking and stirring cycles 2-3 times until almonds turn light golden brown, about 15-20 minutes total. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
Step 2: Place dried cranberries and 1 tablespoon of water in a small microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on high for 40 seconds. Let cool.
Step 3: In a glass jar, combine extra virgin olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and poppy seeds. Cover tightly and shake well until emulsified. Set aside.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine baby spinach and thinly sliced apple. Drizzle ¼ cup of the dressing over the greens and apples, tossing gently to coat. Top with plumped dried cranberries, pomegranate arils, and honey-roasted almonds. Toss lightly before serving and offer extra dressing at the table.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for fall and holiday gatherings.
Adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
For added flavor, consider incorporating feta cheese or nuts such as walnuts or pecans.
Dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp.

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Best Ways to Serve Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

This fresh spinach apple salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a side dish at holiday gatherings or potlucks. For an extra crunch, sprinkle some sunflower seeds on top. This spinach salad with cranberries and apples is also perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

To keep your salad fresh, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. You can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss. This method is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

What is apple cranberry spinach salad?

This salad is a delightful mix of fresh spinach, crisp apples, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a zesty dressing.

Can I make apple cranberry spinach salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance. Just remember to dress it right before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crunchy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with apple cranberry spinach salad?

To avoid soggy spinach, keep the dressing separate until serving. Also, be mindful not to overdress the salad, as this can overpower the fresh flavors.

Variations of Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this delicious spinach salad with cranberries. You can add other fruits like pears or oranges for a citrusy twist. Incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts can enhance the texture, while crumbled feta cheese adds a savory element. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas, making it a full meal. This apple and cranberry mixed greens salad can be tailored to fit your dietary needs, whether vegetarian or not.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or try making pumpkin patch cookies for a sweet treat. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, consider chicken caesar sandwiches as a perfect pairing.

Additionally, you can learn more about the health benefits of spinach from Healthline or explore the advantages of incorporating apples into your diet at Medical News Today.