Apple, Pecan, Cranberry, and Avocado Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Apple, Pecan, Cranberry, and Avocado Spinach Salad for its freshness, depth of flavor, and the balance between the sweet and savory elements. The spinach provides a nutrient-packed base, while the apples and cranberries offer a burst of sweetness. The avocado adds a rich, creamy texture, and the toasted pecans bring a satisfying crunch. The balsamic dressing ties everything together with its tangy finish, making this salad a standout. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves

• 1 medium apple, thinly sliced (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup pecans, toasted

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the balsamic dressing:

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Toast the pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, apple slices, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and sliced avocado. Add the red onion (if using) for extra flavor and color.

4. Dress the salad: Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas.

• Use different nuts: Swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a different crunch.

• Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and skip the cheese for a vegan-friendly option.

• Add cheese: Crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese would be wonderful additions for extra creaminess and flavor.

• Include citrus: For a fresh twist, add orange or grapefruit segments for added sweetness and color.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, as the spinach and avocado can wilt or brown over time. However, if you have leftovers:

• Storage: Store the salad components (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

• Storage for the dressing: Keep the dressing in a separate container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reassembly: Reassemble the salad and drizzle with the dressing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients (except the avocado) ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent wilting and browning.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?

While fresh cranberries are tart, you can use them if you prefer. You may want to lightly sweeten them with a little sugar or honey to balance their tartness.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

To keep the avocado from browning, toss it with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad. Alternatively, you can add the avocado just before serving to maintain its freshness.

How do I make the dressing creamier?

For a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the balsamic dressing mixture.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or even roasted beets for more variety and color.

Can I use a different type of greens instead of spinach?

Yes! You can substitute the spinach with arugula, kale, or mixed greens for a different flavor profile and texture.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

The salad ingredients (without dressing) will last for up to 1 day in the fridge. The avocado will brown faster, so it’s best to eat it right away or store it separately.

Conclusion

The Apple, Pecan, Cranberry, and Avocado Spinach Salad with Balsamic Dressing is a delightful, vibrant dish that brings together the best of fall and winter produce. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. The balance of sweetness from the apples and cranberries, the crunch of the pecans, and the creaminess of the avocado, all tied together with a tangy balsamic dressing, makes this salad a perfect addition to any meal. Whether served as a side or a main course, it’s sure to impress.