Spinach Recipe
Spinach and spring mix tossed with dried cranberries, Gorgonzola cheese, candied walnuts, apples and grapes with an orange vinaigrette.
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Ingredients
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Greens & Fruit
Cheese
Candied Walnuts
Orange Vinaigrette
Method
Greens & Fruit
- 1
Prepare greens
Wash the baby spinach and spring mix thoroughly. Spin or pat dry with paper towels until no excess moisture remains. Place spinach and spring mix in a large salad bowl and gently toss to combine.
- 2
Slice apple and grapes
Core and thinly slice the apple crosswise or into matchsticks to prevent browning. Halve the grapes and add them to the bowl with the greens. Sprinkle the dried cranberries over the top and gently toss to distribute.
Candied Walnuts
- 3
Make candied walnuts: place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the walnuts, granulated sugar, and butter. Stir continuously as the sugar melts and coats the walnuts, about 3–4 minutes. Once the sugar has melted and the walnuts are glossy and slightly toasted, remove from the heat and immediately transfer to a sheet of parchment or a silicone mat, separating pieces with a fork. Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt. Let cool completely (about 10 minutes) — they will crisp as they cool.
Orange Vinaigrette
- 4
Make the dressing: in a small bowl or jar combine the fresh orange juice, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the honey dissolves and the mustard starts to emulsify. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking (or put the lid on the jar and shake vigorously) until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning — add up to 1/2 tsp more salt or a little extra honey if you prefer it sweeter.
- 5
If the dressing is very loose, refrigerate 10 minutes to chill and slightly thicken; bring to room temperature before using if it becomes too cold.
Assemble Salad
- 6
- 7
Just before serving, pour the orange vinaigrette over the salad — start with about 3–4 tablespoons, toss gently to coat, and add more to taste. Taste and adjust with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- 8
Divide among 4 plates or serve family-style. Garnish with any reserved candied walnuts and a few extra dried cranberries or a small sprinkle of Gorgonzola.
