Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for that perfect dish to bring color and freshness to your holiday table, let me introduce you to my Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad! This salad is like a burst of sunshine on a plate. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and oh-so-easy to whip up. I always make it for gatherings because it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds!

Imagine the tartness of fresh cranberries paired with sweet, juicy oranges, all sitting atop a bed of crisp spinach. And let’s not forget the crunch from walnuts and the creamy feta that just ties everything together. Trust me, this salad is a showstopper at any festive occasion. Plus, it’s healthy, so you can enjoy it guilt-free while indulging in all those holiday goodies! I love making it ahead of time, letting the flavors mingle in the fridge, and then serving it chilled. You’ll be the star of your next gathering with this delightful dish!

Ingredients for Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

2 cups fresh cranberries – Make sure they’re bright and firm for the best flavor!
2 large oranges, peeled and segmented – Sweet and juicy is what you’re aiming for here!
1 cup spinach leaves – Fresh and crisp, they’ll provide a lovely backdrop for all those vibrant colors.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts – These add a satisfying crunch, but feel free to toast them for extra flavor!
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled – This creamy cheese brings a delightful tang that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
1/4 cup olive oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil works wonders in the dressing.
2 tablespoons honey – Adjust this to your liking; it’s perfect for sweetening up the tart cranberries.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – This adds a nice depth of flavor and a touch of acidity.

How to Prepare Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

First things first, wash your fresh cranberries thoroughly. Make sure to remove any stems or bad ones—trust me, that tartness is way better when you’re not biting into something unpleasant!
Next, grab those juicy oranges. Peel them and segment them into bite-sized pieces. Oh, the smell of fresh oranges is just heavenly, isn’t it?
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, orange segments, and those beautiful spinach leaves. Just look at those colors coming together! It’s like a little party in the bowl.
Now, sprinkle in the chopped walnuts and crumbled feta cheese. Give everything a gentle toss so the ingredients start to mingle. Be careful not to smash the oranges or cranberries—nobody wants a mushy salad!
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar until it’s smooth and well combined. This is where the magic happens! I love how the honey balances out the tartness of the cranberries.
Drizzle your dressing over the salad mixture, and toss gently again to coat everything evenly. Take a moment to admire the colors and aromas—you’re doing great!
If you have the time, I recommend letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors really come together and enhances that refreshing taste. But if you’re in a rush, serving it right away is perfectly fine too!
Serve immediately after chilling or toss one last time before placing it on the table. Enjoy the compliments that come your way!

Why You’ll Love This Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!
Beautifully vibrant colors that brighten up any table setting.
Deliciously refreshing flavors that balance sweetness and tartness.
Packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and spinach, making it a healthy choice.
Versatile and pairs wonderfully with holiday dishes like turkey or ham.
Perfect for make-ahead preparation; the flavors only get better as they mingle!
Guilt-free indulgence that keeps your festive spirit high!

Tips for Success with Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh cranberries and oranges. Frozen cranberries can work in a pinch, but the flavor and texture of fresh fruit really shine in this salad!
Chill Out: If you can, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it super refreshing—perfect for those festive gatherings!
Adjust to Taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the dressing! If you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey. Prefer it tangy? A splash more balsamic vinegar can do wonders!
Mix Up the Nuts: While walnuts are my go-to for that lovely crunch, feel free to swap in pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile. Toasting them slightly can add an extra layer of deliciousness!
Serving Presentation: For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in a large glass bowl. The vibrant colors will shine through, making it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds!
Perfect Pairings: This salad goes wonderfully with a variety of dishes, but I particularly love it alongside roasted meats. It provides that perfect contrast to rich flavors!
Leftover Love: If you have any leftovers (which is rare, let’s be honest!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the spinach might wilt a bit, but it’ll still taste fabulous!

Variations of Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

One of the things I love most about my Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Nutty Delights: Swap out the walnuts for pecans or sliced almonds for a different crunch. You could even try toasted hazelnuts for a unique twist!
Fruity Fun: Add in some diced apples or pears for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Pomegranate seeds would also make a gorgeous addition, bringing that festive flair!
Cheese Choices: If feta isn’t your thing, try crumbled goat cheese for a tangy flavor, or even some sharp cheddar for a heartier taste that plays beautifully against the fruit.
Dress It Up: Experiment with different dressings! A citrus vinaigrette made with orange juice and zest could amplify the flavors even more. Or, a honey mustard dressing would add a zesty kick!
Herb It Up: Toss in some fresh herbs like mint or basil to brighten things up. They add a refreshing element that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
Grain Goodness: For a more filling salad, mix in some cooked quinoa or farro. This not only adds texture but also makes it a heartier side dish!
Seasonal Spice: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor—perfect for winter gatherings!

Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas! The beauty of this salad is that it’s all about what makes you happy, so go ahead and make it your own!

Nutritional Information for Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

Alright, let’s talk numbers! This Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious addition to your holiday spread. Here’s what you can expect in each serving:

Calories: 250
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 120mg
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this salad is a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy goodness while still enjoying the festive flavors we all love!

FAQ about Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often make my Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad a few hours ahead of my gathering. Just remember to toss the salad with the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!

Can I use frozen cranberries?
While fresh cranberries are the star of this salad for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen cranberries in a pinch. Just be aware that they might release more moisture as they thaw, so you’ll want to serve it right away.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If feta isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it out for crumbled goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, sharp cheddar or even a vegan cheese can work beautifully, depending on your preference!

How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2 days. Just keep in mind that the spinach might wilt a bit, but the flavors will still be delicious!

Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Definitely! The beauty of my Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad is its versatility. Feel free to toss in some diced apples, pears, or even pomegranate seeds for a fun twist. It only enhances that festive flair!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

Alright, let’s talk about what to do with any leftovers of my delicious Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad! If you happen to have any (though I can’t promise there will be much left!), here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

First, make sure to store the salad in an airtight container. This helps keep all those vibrant flavors intact and prevents any unwanted odors from sneaking in. I usually just pop it in the fridge where it can hang out for about 2 days. Just a little note: the spinach might wilt a bit during storage, but don’t worry! The flavors will still be delightful.

Now, about reheating… Well, here’s the thing—this salad is meant to be served cold, so there’s really no need to reheat it. I actually recommend enjoying it straight from the fridge for that refreshing crunch! If it’s been sitting for a while, just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors. Trust me, it’ll taste just as good as when you first made it!

And if you find yourself with a little extra time, you could always add a fresh handful of spinach or some extra orange segments just before serving to really amp up that color and freshness again. Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions for Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

Now that you’ve got your Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad ready to dazzle everyone, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! This salad is not just a side dish; it can really shine as part of a delightful spread. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Roast Turkey or Ham: This salad is a perfect companion to traditional holiday meats. The sweetness of the oranges and tartness of the cranberries offer a refreshing contrast to rich, savory flavors.
Grilled Chicken: If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, grilled chicken breast drizzled with a citrus glaze makes for a wonderful match. The salad complements the chicken’s flavor beautifully!
Stuffed Acorn Squash: For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside stuffed acorn squash filled with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts. It’s a wholesome pairing that feels festive and hearty.
Cheese Platter: Create a beautiful cheese board with a variety of cheeses—think creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and tangy goat cheese. The salad adds a lovely freshness and balances the richness of the cheeses.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some freshly baked rolls are perfect for scooping up bits of salad. Plus, they make for a satisfying addition to your meal!
Roasted Veggies: Pair your salad with a medley of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes. The earthy flavors play nicely against the bright notes of your salad.
Quinoa Salad: For a grainy side, consider a quinoa salad tossed with herbs, lemon, and perhaps some diced cucumbers or bell peppers. It complements the textures and flavors of your festive salad!

With these delicious serving suggestions, your Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad will truly shine as part of a memorable meal. Enjoy the combination of flavors, and don’t forget to soak in all the compliments from your friends and family—it’s well-deserved!

Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and colorful salad perfect for festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh cranberries
2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
1 cup spinach leaves
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

Wash the cranberries and remove any stems.
Peel and segment the oranges.
In a large bowl, combine cranberries, orange segments, and spinach leaves.
Add chopped walnuts and crumbled feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar.
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Notes

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.
This salad pairs well with turkey or ham.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Festive Orange & Cranberry Salad

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