There's nothing quite like the burst of flavor that comes from a fresh salad, particularly one that combines vibrant ingredients and a delightful crunch. I discovered this Spinach Orange Almond Salad on a breezy spring afternoon while trying to find a dish that could turn my usual greens into something extraordinary. The pop of sweet orange segments with the creamy feta and toasty almonds transformed my kitchen into a haven of freshness.
With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this salad is not only effortless but also a stunning crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for those busy weekdays when you crave something healthy yet delectable, or when you want an impressive side dish for your next gathering. The combination of heart-healthy spinach, zesty oranges, and nutty almonds creates a symphony of flavors that can brighten any meal. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that takes minimal effort but delivers maximum taste? Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that will make you rethink your salad game!
Why You'll Love This Spinach Orange Almond Salad
- This Spinach Orange Almond Salad is a breeze to prepare, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- The vibrant flavors of sweet oranges paired with crunchy almonds and creamy feta create an irresistible combination that pleases the palate.
- Its versatility allows it to shine as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even a stunning addition to a potluck.
- The beautiful colors and textures make it visually appealing, ensuring that it stands out on any table.
Spinach Orange Almond Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Fresh spinach – a nutritious base that adds vibrant color and essential vitamins.
- Oranges – choose sweet, juicy ones for that delightful burst of flavor.
- Sliced almonds – toast them lightly for an extra nutty crunch.
- Red onion – adds a subtle zing; soak in cold water to mellow the flavor if desired.
- Feta cheese – crumbled for a creamy, tangy touch that complements the salad beautifully.
For the Dressing
- Olive oil – a heart-healthy fat that brings all the flavors together.
- Balsamic vinegar – adds a sweet and tangy depth that elevates the Spinach Orange Almond Salad.
- Salt – enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- Pepper – a dash adds a hint of warmth and depth.
How to Make Spinach Orange Almond Salad
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Wash and dry the spinach. Rinse 4 cups of fresh spinach under cool water and gently pat dry with a clean towel or salad spinner. This keeps your salad crisp and fresh!
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Combine the ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together the spinach, 2 segmented oranges, ½ cup of sliced almonds, ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion, and ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese. This colorful mix is already looking gorgeous!
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Whisk together the dressing. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until blended for a smooth, vibrant dressing.
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Pour the dressing onto your salad mixture and toss gently, just enough to coat all the ingredients without bruising the spinach—this is where all those beautiful flavors marry.
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Serve immediately. Plate up your Spinach Orange Almond Salad and enjoy the crunch and bright flavors right away. This salad is best when fresh!
Optional: Garnish with more feta or a few extra almonds for added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach Orange Almond Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can wash and dry the spinach and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it crisp. Additionally, you can segment the oranges and slice the red onion in advance, storing them together in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For the almonds and feta, keep them in separate containers to maintain their textures. When you're ready to serve, simply combine all ingredients in a bowl, whisk together the dressing, drizzle it over the salad, and toss gently. This way, you’ll enjoy a refreshing salad just as delicious as when prepared fresh!
Spinach Orange Almond Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this salad to match your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Nut-Free: Swap sliced almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to maintain that delightful crunch without the nuts.
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Cheese-Free: Omit feta cheese for a dairy-free version; alternatively, use almond-based cheese for a similar creamy texture.
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Fruity Twist: Add sliced strawberries or diced apples for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor; the vibrant colors will make your salad pop!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some finely sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bold heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the oranges.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist that adds depth and aromatic notes to your salad.
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Vegan Option: Replace the feta with avocado cubes for creaminess without dairy, keeping it rich and satisfying.
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Grain Boost: Stir in cooked quinoa or farro for extra texture and protein that transforms your salad into a filling meal.
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Citrus Variety: Experiment by using grapefruit segments instead of oranges to introduce a tartness that balances the other flavors beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Orange Almond Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Freezer: It is not recommended to freeze Spinach Orange Almond Salad due to the texture changes in spinach and fresh ingredients once thawed.
Reheating: If you've made the salad in advance, simply serve it cold. If you prefer a warm dish, consider lightly sautéing the spinach before mixing with the other ingredients.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare individual components, like slicing the almonds or segmenting the oranges, a day ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Combine when ready to serve for a fresh taste!
What to Serve with Spinach Orange Almond Salad?
Imagine a table adorned with vibrant colors and fresh, delightful flavors that can tickle your taste buds.
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy grilled chicken adds a satisfying protein boost, complementing the salad's fresh and bright notes.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty side dish offers a hearty texture that balances the crispness of the salad beautifully.
- Couscous with Lemon Zest: Light and fluffy, the citrusy cousin of pasta enhances the salad's flavors while providing a lovely base.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and warm, caramelized exterior will harmonize with the zesty oranges and crunchy almonds.
- Chickpea Hummus: Serve with warm pita bread for a creamy dip that adds a savory contrast to the sweet and tangy salad.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal's refreshing qualities while adding a touch of elegance.
- Lemon Sorbet: Finish on a sweet note with this light dessert that echoes the salad's citrusy flavors while cleansing the palate.
- Herbed Flatbread: Crisp and aromatic, this bread is perfect for scooping up the salad and enjoyable on its own too.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and spices will add an exciting twist of flavor while offering additional nutrients.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always wash and dry the spinach thoroughly to maintain its crisp texture in the Spinach Orange Almond Salad.
- When choosing oranges, opt for sweet, juicy varieties to enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
- Lightly toasting the sliced almonds before adding them will elevate their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- Toss the salad gently, just enough to coat the ingredients, to avoid bruising the fresh spinach leaves and preserve their vibrant look.
Spinach Orange Almond Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe oranges for this salad?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. The skin should be smooth and vibrant, with no dark spots or blemishes. Sweet varieties like navel or Valencia are perfect for this salad!
How should I store leftovers of the Spinach Orange Almond Salad?
After enjoying your delicious salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It's best to keep the dressing separate to avoid making the spinach soggy. When you're ready to eat, simply toss it all together again for that fresh taste!
Can I freeze the Spinach Orange Almond Salad?
Not really! Freezing this salad is not recommended due to the delicate nature of spinach and the fresh ingredients, which can become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze components like the sliced almonds and serve them later when you combine the salad fresh!
What if my spinach wilts or has dark spots?
Very good question! If the spinach looks wilted or has dark spots all over, it's best to toss it out. Fresh spinach should be vibrant and crisp. If you ever want to revive slightly wilted spinach, you can soak it in ice-cold water for about 10-15 minutes to bring some life back to those leaves.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! To make this Spinach Orange Almond Salad vegan, replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or simply omit it. You’ll still enjoy the layers of flavor and crunch from the spinach, oranges, almonds, and dressing—so, everyone can dig in!
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to customize your salad with ingredients like avocado for creaminess, cherry tomatoes for sweetness, or even sliced cucumbers for extra crunch. Just remember to balance the flavors and keep that fresh vibe!
Spinach Orange Almond Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and dry the spinach.
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach, segmented oranges, sliced almonds, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
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