Cranberry Walnut Salad

Cranberry Walnut Salad: A Refreshing Burst of Sweet & Crunchy Goodness 🥗✨🍒

1. Introduction

Looking for a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion? This Cranberry Walnut Salad recipe is a delightful combination of fresh greens, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together with a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, making it as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

If you love creative salad combinations, you might also enjoy our Spiced Apple and Walnut Salad with Maple Dressing which offers a similar sweet and crunchy experience with autumn-inspired flavors.

2. Ingredients

• 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

For those looking for more healthy snack options featuring nuts and berries, check out our Frozen Yogurt Bark with Mixed Berries and Granola – a perfect complement to this salad!

3. Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cranberries and Walnuts

Start by roughly chopping the walnuts to ensure they provide a satisfying crunch in every bite. If using fresh cranberries, give them a quick chop as well. Dried cranberries can be used as-is for convenience. The combination of walnuts and cranberries creates a wonderful texture contrast that makes this Cranberry Walnut Salad so special.

Step 2: Assemble the Greens and Toppings

In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens. Top with the chopped cranberries, walnuts, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). The combination of colors and textures makes this Cranberry Walnut Salad visually appealing and delicious. For another great meal prep option with similar ingredients, try our Protein Packed Overnight Oats with Almond Butter and Berries.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple yet flavorful dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the cranberries and the nuttiness of the walnuts. The dressing is what really brings all the flavors together in this Cranberry Walnut Salad.

If you enjoy making your own dressings, you might love our Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika and Sea Salt as another healthy topping option for salads.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp freshness of this Cranberry Walnut Salad. For a complete meal, pair it with our Hearty London Breakfast Plate for a satisfying combination.

4. Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or pepitas.
• Extra Crunch: Add sliced apples or pears for additional sweetness and texture.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate mango chunks like in our Avocado and Mango Salsa for a tropical variation.

5. Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Walnut Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a warm bowl of soup. It’s also a fantastic standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner. Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete meal. For a refreshing drink pairing, try our Matcha Green Tea Smoothie Bowl.

6. Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the greens crisp. For more meal prep ideas, check out our Spinach and Feta Egg Muffins.

7. Health Benefits

This Cranberry Walnut Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, helping boost immunity.
• Walnuts: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supporting brain health.
• Mixed Greens: High in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, promoting digestive health.
• Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that may help reduce inflammation.

For another nutritious dessert option, try our Protein Ice Cream with Cosmic Brownie Flavor as a healthy treat after your salad.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: Yes! Fresh cranberries add a tart flavor, but you may want to sweeten them slightly before adding them to the salad. You can find more cranberry inspiration in this classic cranberry salad recipe from Food.com.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting. The toppings can be prepped up to 2 days in advance.

Q: What other nuts can I use?
A: Pecans, almonds, or pistachios would also work well in this recipe. For more crunchy snack ideas, try our Baked Sweet Potato Chips.

9. Conclusion

This Cranberry Walnut Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a healthy lunch option, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s nutritious enough for everyday eating but special enough for entertaining. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of freshness in every bite! 🍽️✨

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