Festive Spinach & Citrus Salad

Description

Festive Spinach & Citrus Salad

Ingredients

4 cups fresh baby spinach
3 mandarin oranges (peeled and segmented)
1/2 cup pomegranate arils
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup pecans (toasted)
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions

Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, mandarin orange segments, pomegranate arils, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
Toss and serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat. Enjoy this vibrant, holiday-inspired dish!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 190 kcal per serving

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Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your salad is perfectly balanced and visually stunning.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Thoroughly wash and dry the baby spinach. Peel and segment the mandarin oranges, ensuring all white pith is removed. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then let them cool.
2. Build the Salad Base: In your large serving bowl, add the spinach first to create a green foundation. Artfully arrange the mandarin segments and pomegranate arils on top for maximum color contrast.
3. Add Texture & Flavor: Sprinkle the dried cranberries, cooled toasted pecans, and crumbled cheese evenly over the salad. For best texture, add the nuts and cheese last before dressing.
4. Emulsify the Dressing: In a small jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Seal the jar and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until the mixture is fully combined and slightly thickened.
5. Final Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, toss gently from the bottom upwards to coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate spinach.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. For a holiday feast, serve it alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted pork tenderloin. For a lighter meal, top it with grilled chicken or flaked salmon to make it an entrée. Present it in a large, shallow bowl or on a platter to showcase its vibrant colors.

How-to Summary

Combine fresh spinach, citrus segments, pomegranate, cranberries, toasted nuts, and cheese. Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Toss gently just before serving for a festive and healthy side dish ready in 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but with preparation. Keep all components separate. Combine the spinach, oranges, and dressing no more than an hour before serving to prevent wilting. Add nuts and cheese right before serving.

What can I use instead of goat cheese? Feta cheese is an excellent alternative listed in the recipe. For a dairy-free option, try vegan feta or simply omit the cheese altogether—the salad will still be flavorful.

How do I easily segment citrus? Cut off the top and bottom of the mandarin. Place it flat on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut away the peel and pith in strips. Then, slice between the membranes to release clean segments.

Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely. Walnuts, sliced almonds, or candied pecans would work wonderfully. Toast any raw nuts to deepen their flavor.

Is there a substitute for honey in the dressing? Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar are perfect vegan-friendly substitutes that will provide a similar touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding dressing too early: This will cause the spinach to wilt and become soggy. Always dress the salad at the last moment.
• Skipping the toasting step for nuts: Toasting unlocks essential oils and crunch, adding a critical flavor dimension.
• Not drying the spinach: Excess water on the leaves will dilute your dressing, making the salad bland and watery.
• Over-mixing: Be gentle when tossing to maintain the integrity of the soft citrus segments and delicate cheese crumbles.

Conclusion

This Festive Spinach & Citrus Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of color, texture, and fresh, vibrant flavors that brighten any holiday table. With its simple preparation, make-ahead flexibility, and stunning presentation, it’s the perfect healthy complement to rich seasonal dishes. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a salad that is as delicious as it is beautiful, impressing your guests with minimal effort.