Looking for a refreshing salad that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Quick Fix Spinach Salad with Cranberries, Mandarin Oranges, and Pecans! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish that combines the earthy goodness of fresh spinach with the sweet tang of cranberries and mandarin oranges, all topped off with crunchy pecans. Perfect for a light lunch or a delightful side at dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s dive into this easy and irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by thoroughly washing the fresh spinach leaves under cool running water. Gently pat dry using clean paper towels or a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Drain the mandarin oranges completely in a colander, allowing them to sit and release any additional liquid while you prepare other ingredients.
- Place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the fresh spinach leaves as a base, creating an even layer that covers the bottom of the bowl.
- Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly over the spinach leaves, distributing them for balanced flavor in each bite.
- Gently place the drained mandarin orange segments on top of the spinach and cranberries.
- Scatter the toasted pecans across the salad, ensuring even distribution.
- If using, crumble the feta cheese over the salad for an additional layer of flavor and texture.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the entire salad, using just enough to lightly coat the ingredients.
- Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss all ingredients together to ensure even coating and mixing of flavors.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp spinach and fresh flavors. Best consumed within 15-20 minutes of preparation to maintain leaf crispness.
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh spinach leaves for the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting or browning.
- Toast Your Nuts: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor significantly. Keep an eye on them while toasting, as they can burn quickly.
- Layering for Flavor: When assembling your salad, layer the ingredients in the order listed to ensure every bite is a perfect mix of flavors.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of balsamic vinaigrette to suit your taste. Start with less and add more if needed!
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the salad right after tossing. This keeps the spinach crisp and the flavors fresh.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to mix in other favorite ingredients like avocado, apples, or sunflower seeds for additional texture and taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
