Imagine a salad so vibrant and delicious that it transforms your ordinary lunch into a gourmet experience. Our Cranberry Vinaigrette Salad is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Packed with crisp mixed greens, sweet dried cranberries, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy toasted walnuts, this American-style salad is about to become your new obsession. In just 10 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- Dried cranberries
- Feta cheese
- Walnuts
- Cranberry vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cool running water, then pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl, ensuring they are evenly spread and have room for tossing.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries over the greens, distributing them evenly across the salad surface.
- Crumble the feta cheese into small chunks and scatter them over the salad, ensuring a balanced distribution.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 minutes.
- Roughly chop the toasted walnuts and sprinkle them over the salad for added crunch and flavor.
- Prepare the cranberry vinaigrette by whisking together cranberry juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Drizzle the cranberry vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately to maintain the salad's freshness and crisp texture.
Tips
- Always wash and thoroughly dry your greens to ensure maximum crispness and prevent a soggy salad.
- Toast your walnuts carefully – the key is constant stirring and watching them closely to avoid burning.
- Prepare the vinaigrette just before serving to maintain its fresh, vibrant flavor.
- For the best texture, add the vinaigrette right before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent wilting.
- Feel free to customize by adding grilled chicken or substituting nuts based on your preference.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate the overall taste of the salad.
- Chill your serving bowl beforehand to keep the salad extra crisp and refreshing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
