Cranberry Avocado Spinach Delight with Sweet Balsamic Vinaigrette
Experience a burst of flavors with our Cranberry Avocado Spinach Delight! This vibrant salad features a delightful mix of fresh baby spinach, arugula, and field greens, artfully topped with creamy avocado, tangy dried cranberries, and crunchy candied spiced almonds. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal brightness, while our signature sweet balsamic vinaigrette drizzles over the top for the perfect finish. Perfect for lunches, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering, this salad combines nutrition and taste in every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
sugar
1/3 cup (measure and set aside)
poppy seeds
1 1/2 tablespoons (measure and set aside)
sesame seeds
1 1/2 tablespoons (measure and set aside)
paprika
1/2 teaspoon (measure and set aside)
dried mustard
2 teaspoons (measure and set aside)
minced sweet onion
1 tablespoon (mince and set aside)
sea salt
1/2 teaspoon (measure and set aside)
fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (measure and set aside)
white balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup (measure and set aside)
vegetable oil
1/3 cup (measure and set aside)
extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup (measure and set aside)
Baby Spinach, arugula, field greens
12 ounces (wash and dry)
cilantro
1 small bunch (wash and dry, leaves removed from stems)
avocados
2 medium (peeled and halved)
dried cranberries
3/4 cup (measure and set aside)
candied spiced almonds
3/4 cup (prepare according to recipe)
Instructions
1
To prepare the dressing, combine sugar, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, paprika, dried mustard, minced sweet onion, sea salt, black pepper, white balsamic vinegar, vegetable oil, and extra virgin olive oil in a pint-sized glass jar. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
2
In a large mixing bowl, layer the baby spinach, arugula, and field greens. Add the cilantro leaves and gently toss to combine.
3
Carefully add the peeled and halved avocados and dried cranberries to the mixed greens. Drizzle approximately 1/4 cup of the prepared vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to avoid mashing the avocado.
4
To finish, scatter the candied spiced almonds over the salad and lightly sprinkle with additional sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately with the remaining dressing on the side for guests to add to their preference.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main greens used in the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Delight?
The recipe uses a 12-ounce mix of fresh baby spinach, arugula, and field greens.
What kind of vinegar is required for the sweet balsamic vinaigrette?
The dressing specifically calls for 1/2 cup of white balsamic vinegar.
Is this salad recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only plant-based ingredients like greens, fruits, nuts, and oils.
Is the Cranberry Avocado Spinach Delight gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed, including the greens, nuts, and homemade dressing, are gluten-free.
How do I prepare the dressing for this salad?
Combine sugar, seeds, spices, onion, vinegar, and oils in a pint-sized jar and shake vigorously until the sugar dissolves.
What type of nuts are used in this recipe?
The salad is topped with 3/4 cup of candied spiced almonds for crunch and flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the dressing and wash the greens ahead of time, but it is best to assemble and toss just before serving to keep the avocado fresh.
What seeds are included in the balsamic vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette features 1 1/2 tablespoons each of poppy seeds and sesame seeds.
How should the avocados be prepared for the salad?
The avocados should be peeled and halved before being added to the greens.
What spices are in the salad dressing?
The dressing is seasoned with paprika, dried mustard, sea salt, and fresh ground black pepper.
Does the recipe call for onion?
Yes, the dressing includes 1 tablespoon of minced sweet onion.
What oils are used in the vinaigrette?
The recipe uses a combination of 1/3 cup vegetable oil and 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are a total of 16 ingredients required to make the salad and its dressing.
Should the cilantro be chopped?
The instructions suggest removing the leaves from the stems and tossing them whole with the greens.
How much sugar is in the salad dressing?
The dressing requires 1/3 cup of sugar to achieve its signature sweet flavor.
How do I prevent the avocado from mashing when tossing the salad?
Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss very gently to ensure the avocado pieces remain intact.
What is the recommended serving style?
Serve the salad immediately after tossing, with any remaining dressing on the side for guests.
Can I substitute the dried cranberries?
While the recipe calls for dried cranberries, you could substitute them with dried cherries or pomegranate arils for a similar tangy sweetness.
What makes the almonds 'spiced'?
The recipe specifies candied spiced almonds, which are typically prepared with sugar and warm spices like cinnamon or cayenne.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Yes, it is excellent for picnics, though it is recommended to keep the dressing and avocado separate until ready to serve.
How much dried mustard is in the dressing?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of dried mustard in the vinaigrette.
Is the cilantro a garnish or a main ingredient?
It is a key ingredient; one small bunch of cilantro leaves is tossed directly into the greens for herbal brightness.
What provides the saltiness in the dressing?
Sea salt is used in the dressing, with additional salt sprinkled over the finished salad.
Can I use regular balsamic vinegar?
You can, but white balsamic vinegar is preferred as it has a milder flavor and won't discolor the bright greens and avocado.
What is the primary flavor profile of this salad?
It is a balance of creamy (avocado), tangy (cranberries/vinegar), sweet (sugar/almonds), and crunchy.
How many avocados are needed?
The recipe requires 2 medium avocados.
What size jar is recommended for the dressing?
A pint-sized glass jar is recommended for shaking and storing the dressing.
Is the paprika spicy or sweet?
The recipe uses standard paprika, which generally adds a mild, earthy sweetness and color rather than intense heat.
Can I add protein to this salad?
While not in the original recipe, grilled chicken or shrimp would pair very well with these flavors.
What is the texture of the greens mix?
The mix of baby spinach, arugula, and field greens provides a soft, tender texture with a slight peppery bite from the arugula.