Introduction
Get ready for a flavor fiesta with this Apple Pecan Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad! It’s a crispy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy delight that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a healthy snack or a light meal, this salad is as refreshing as it is colorful!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 bag (10 oz) baby spinach leaves
- 1 Granny Smith apple, cored and thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecan halves, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Directions
1. In a large salad bowl, toss together the baby spinach, apple slices, avocado, cranberries, and toasted pecans. It’s like a rainbow of health in your bowl!
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake it up until it’s perfectly blended.
3. Drizzle the dressing over your vibrant salad and toss gently until everything is coated in that tangy goodness.
4. Serve immediately and watch it disappear in no time!
Nutritional Information
This salad is packed with nutrients and love, giving you a boost in vitamins A, C, and healthy fats to keep you energized. Enjoy the perfect blend of tastes and textures that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, combine 1 bag (10 oz) of baby spinach leaves, 1 thinly sliced and cored Granny Smith apple, 1 peeled, pitted, and sliced avocado, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, and 1/4 cup of toasted pecan halves. Toss them gently to mix.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Shake or whisk until thoroughly blended.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the assembled salad. Toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
Step 4: Serve the Salad
Serve the salad immediately for the best flavor and freshness. Enjoy while the ingredients are crisp and the flavors vibrant!
Notes
Storage
This salad is best served immediately. If you need to prepare it in advance, store the dressing separately and assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Variations
Feel free to add other ingredients such as feta cheese or chicken for a more filling meal, or substitute pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Nutrition Highlights
This salad is a great source of vitamins A and C, healthy fats from avocado, and protein from pecans, making it a nutritious choice for a snack or light meal.
Cook techniques
Preparing Spinach
Make sure to wash the baby spinach leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
Slicing the Apple
Core the Granny Smith apple and slice it thinly to ensure even distribution in the salad. The tartness of the apple complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
Toasting Pecans
Toast the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Mixing the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, blend the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified and well combined.
Combining Ingredients
When mixing the salad, gently toss the spinach, apple, avocado, cranberries, and pecans together to avoid bruising the avocado.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh.
What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as feta cheese, walnuts, or sliced chicken for a protein boost.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. However, the avocado may brown and the spinach may wilt.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Absolutely! You can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Apple Pecan Cranberry Avocado Spinach Salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy snack or a light meal. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
