Healthy Spinach Apple Cranberry Salad Recipe

This Spinach Apple Cranberry Salad is a beautiful, refreshing mix of textures and flavors that captures the best of fall and winter. Crisp apples, tart cranberries, crunchy nuts, and tender spinach come together with a light honey vinaigrette that brightens every bite. It’s quick to make, perfect for holiday meals or weekday lunches, and looks stunning on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, seasonal ingredients full of color and crunch.
• Naturally sweetened with apples and dried cranberries.
• Easy to prepare in under 15 minutes.
• Versatile, pairs beautifully with chicken, salmon, or festive mains.
• Light, healthy, and perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 5 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried
• 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup sliced almonds or pecans, toasted
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. In a large serving bowl, add the spinach leaves, apple slices, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
3. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
4. Toss gently to combine until the ingredients are well coated.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving for a creamy finish.

Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Include grilled chicken or salmon to make it a complete meal.
• Vegan option: Omit feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese.
• Nut-free: Substitute toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• Dressing upgrade: Try balsamic vinaigrette for a deeper, tangy flavor.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as spinach and apples lose texture after thawing.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve alongside roasted chicken, baked salmon, or creamy soups.
• Pair with crusty bread or savory muffins for a balanced meal.
• Drizzle a little extra honey or lemon juice before serving for added brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the ingredients a few hours ahead, but store apples and dressing separately to keep the salad crisp until serving.

What are the best apples to use?

Sweet-crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best, they stay firm and add natural sweetness without becoming mushy.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

You can, but they’re much more tart. Try lightly roasting them or mixing half dried and half fresh for balance.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Just keep dressing in a separate container and combine right before eating to keep the spinach fresh and crunchy.

Ready to Make It?

This Spinach Apple Cranberry Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create a vibrant, flavor-packed dish.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or festive dinners, it brings freshness and balance to any meal.
Save it to your Pinterest board and share it with friends, everyone will ask for the recipe!

You Might Also Like

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• Sweet Potato Salad – Creamy, flavorful, and rich in texture
• Rustic Vegetable and Lentil Stew – A warm and comforting one-pot meal
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes – Crispy, golden perfection every time

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