What ingredients do I need to make Pear Spinach Salad with Cranberry Orange Vinaigrette?

To make Pear Spinach Salad with Cranberry Orange Vinaigrette, you will need fresh baby spinach leaves, ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Bosc), dried cranberries, and toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts. For the vinaigrette, gather fresh orange juice, dried cranberries or cranberry sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. These ingredients balance sweetness, tartness, and crunch for a refreshing salad.

How do I prepare the cranberry orange vinaigrette for the spinach salad?

To prepare the cranberry orange vinaigrette, combine fresh orange juice, dried cranberries (soaked briefly in warm water for softness) or a small spoonful of cranberry sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a blender or jar. Blend or whisk until smooth and emulsified. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing adds a vibrant, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears and the earthiness of the spinach.

Can I make Pear Spinach Salad ahead of time without the salad getting soggy?

Yes, you can prepare most components ahead of time to keep the salad fresh. Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly, slice pears just before serving or coat them lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning, and prepare the vinaigrette separately. Toast nuts in advance and store separately. Assemble the salad right before serving to maintain crisp textures and bright flavors.

What is a good substitute if I don’t have fresh pears for the salad?

If fresh pears are unavailable, apples such as Fuji or Honeycrisp make a good substitute, offering a crisp texture and natural sweetness. You could also use ripe peaches or nectarines in the warmer months for a similar juicy bite. Be sure to slice them just before serving to keep the fruit fresh and toss with a little lemon juice if needed to prevent browning.

Is Pear Spinach Salad with Cranberry Orange Vinaigrette a healthy meal option?

Yes, this salad is a nutritious choice. Baby spinach provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. Pears add fiber and natural sweetness, while dried cranberries contribute antioxidants and vitamin C. The vinaigrette uses heart-healthy olive oil and fresh orange juice for vitamin C. Including nuts boosts protein and healthy fats, making this salad well-rounded and suitable as a light meal or side dish.

Pear Spinach Salad Cranberry Orange Vinaigrette Recipe

Name: Pear Spinach Salad Cranberry Orange Vinaigrette
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1/2 cup fresh cranberries; – 1/3 cup fresh cranberries (34g); – 1/2 to 1 teaspoon orange zest; – 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; – 1 tablespoon honey; – 1 tablespoon sugar; – 2 teaspoons olive oil; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 5 ounces fresh spinach; – 2 pears, cored and sliced (semi-firm but ripe); – 3/4 cup pomegranate arils (or 1/2 cup dried cranberries as an alternative); – 3/4 cup walnuts; – 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup fresh cranberries

– 1/3 cup fresh cranberries (34g)

– 1/2 to 1 teaspoon orange zest

– 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1 tablespoon sugar

– 2 teaspoons olive oil

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 5 ounces fresh spinach

– 2 pears, cored and sliced (semi-firm but ripe)

– 3/4 cup pomegranate arils (or 1/2 cup dried cranberries as an alternative)

– 3/4 cup walnuts

– 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1-Wash and dry 5 ounces of fresh spinach thoroughly; slice 2 pears, cored and ready, to ensure even texture.

2-Measure out 3/4 cup pomegranate arils and 3/4 cup walnuts for the mix.

3-Combine vinaigrette ingredients in a food processor, starting with 1/2 teaspoon orange zest and adjusting to taste; pulse until smooth, then chill.

4-In a large bowl, layer the spinach, pear slices, pomegranate arils, walnuts, and optional 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese.

5-Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently, or serve it on the side to keep things fresh. Aim to serve right away to avoid any browning of the pears.

6-For dietary tweaks, use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan options, and remember the prep time is just 20 minutes total.

Notes

🍯 Honey and sugar help balance the tartness of fresh cranberries in the vinaigrette.
⏳ Slice pears just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent browning.
❄️ Use thawed frozen cranberries if fresh are unavailable, draining any excess liquid before use.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 364
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 279mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 5mg