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When it comes to presenting a salad, the visual appeal can elevate the dining experience significantly. For the Festive Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad, layering the ingredients thoughtfully not only enhances aesthetics but also enriches the flavor profile as each component complements the others.

Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad

Celebrate the holiday season with a vibrant Festive Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad that combines fresh spinach, tart cranberries, sweet apples, and creamy feta for a delightful dish full of flavor and nutrition. This beautiful salad boasts a symphony of textures, making it a perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, it's a healthy choice that everyone will love, whether as a side or main course. Enjoy the holiday spirit with this nourishing delight!
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Ingredients
  

4 cups fresh spinach leaves, thoroughly washed and dried

1 medium apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, coarsely chopped

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired, then set the vinaigrette aside.

    Assemble the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, begin by adding the fresh spinach leaves as the base. Neatly layer the thin apple slices, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, chopped nuts, and sliced red onion on top. Arrange the ingredients in a visually appealing manner to enhance presentation.

      Dress the Salad: When ready to serve, drizzle the prepared vinaigrette evenly over the salad. Use tongs to gently toss the ingredients together, ensuring that each leaf of spinach is lightly coated with the dressing while maintaining the integrity of the toppings.

        Final Touches: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if necessary. For an extra sprinkle of flavor and crunch, consider adding a few more chopped nuts or an additional crumble of feta cheese on top.

          Serve: Present the salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the festive colors and flavors that make this salad a delightful addition to any table.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4