This Cranberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing, sweet, and tangy salad that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh spinach, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and a homemade sesame-poppy seed dressing creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Quick Benefits
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Sweet & Savory Balance: The cranberries and dressing add a hint of sweetness, while the almonds provide crunch.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Essential Ingredients
Salad
- 1 tablespoon butter – Used for toasting the almonds.
- ¾ cup almonds, blanched and slivered – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
- 1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces – The fresh base of the salad.
- 1 cup dried cranberries – Brings a tart and sweet contrast.
Dressing
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Provides a smooth texture.
- ½ cup white sugar – Balances the acidity.
- ¼ cup cider vinegar – Adds tang and depth.
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar – Enhances the dressing’s brightness.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds – Offers a nutty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds – Provides texture and mild sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons minced onion – Adds a subtle savory bite.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika – Enhances color and flavor.
Preparation Steps
- Toast the Almonds:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook and stir almonds until lightly toasted (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, minced onion, and paprika.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large serving bowl, combine fresh spinach, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss well to coat.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Health Benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Spinach and cranberries help fight free radicals.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Almonds and sesame seeds provide beneficial fats.
- Good Source of Iron & Calcium: Spinach and almonds contribute essential minerals.
- Supports Digestion: Fiber from spinach and cranberries promotes gut health.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Grilled Chicken: Add protein for a complete meal.
- Serve with Soup: Complements butternut squash soup or tomato bisque.
- Top with Goat Cheese or Feta: Adds creaminess and a tangy contrast.
- Add Fresh Apple Slices: Enhances the sweetness and crunch.
Creative Variations
- Nut Swap: Use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds.
- Dairy Addition: Add crumbled blue cheese or Parmesan.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled shrimp or tofu.
- Citrus Twist: Replace cranberries with fresh orange segments.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Dressing Storage: Keep dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake before using.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store toasted almonds separately to maintain crunch.
Pro Tips
- Toast the Almonds Properly: Stir constantly to avoid burning.
- Dress Just Before Serving: Prevents the spinach from wilting.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust sugar in the dressing to taste.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Pre-washed baby spinach saves prep time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Keep ingredients separate and toss together before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of sugar in the dressing?
A: Honey or maple syrup can be a great natural substitute.
Q: Can I use bagged spinach?
A: Yes, but ensure it is fresh and crisp for the best texture.
Enjoy this Cranberry Spinach Salad, a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a refreshing twist to your meal!
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Jamie’s Cranberry Spinach Salad Recipe
This Cranberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines crisp spinach, crunchy toasted almonds, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a homemade sesame-poppy seed dressing. With a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this salad is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether served as a side dish or a light meal.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 tablespoon butter – Used for toasting the almonds.
- ¾ cup almonds, blanched and slivered – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
- 1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces – The fresh base of the salad.
- 1 cup dried cranberries – Brings a tart and sweet contrast.
Dressing
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Provides a smooth texture.
- ½ cup white sugar – Balances the acidity.
- ¼ cup cider vinegar – Adds tang and depth.
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar – Enhances the dressing’s brightness.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds – Offers a nutty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds – Provides texture and mild sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons minced onion – Adds a subtle savory bite.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika – Enhances color and flavor.
Instructions
- Toast the Almonds:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook and stir almonds until lightly toasted (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, minced onion, and paprika.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large serving bowl, combine fresh spinach, toasted almonds, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss well to coat.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best flavor and texture
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 338 per serving