Name: Nourishing Spinach and Apple Salad Recipe
Prep time: PT-491144H17M31S
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh baby spinach; 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), thinly sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional); 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted; 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins; 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey; Salt and black pepper to taste

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This Nourishing Spinach and Apple Salad is my go-to when I want something fresh, wholesome, and full of vibrant flavor. It combines crisp apples, tender baby spinach, crunchy nuts, and a tangy-sweet vinaigrette for a salad that’s light yet satisfying. Whether I’m serving it on the side or enjoying it as a meal, it always leaves me feeling energized and nourished.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s packed with nutrients but still tastes delicious and indulgent. The sweet apples balance perfectly with the earthy spinach, and the vinaigrette brings a bright, zesty finish. It’s simple to prepare, easy to customize, and pairs beautifully with almost any main dish. Plus, it works year-round and makes a lovely addition to holiday tables too. Nourishing Spinach and Apple Salad Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh baby spinach
Crisp apples (like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
Dried cranberries or raisins
Crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
Olive oil
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Maple syrup or honey
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

I start by whisking together the vinaigrette: olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
In a large salad bowl, I add the baby spinach, sliced apples, red onion, nuts, and dried cranberries.
I drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Just before serving, I sprinkle crumbled cheese on top if I’m using it.
I serve immediately so the apples and greens stay crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings as a side or 2 generous servings as a main. It takes about 10–15 minutes to prep. Total time: approximately 15 minutes.

Variations

I add grilled chicken or salmon for a protein-packed main dish.
I swap the apples for pears or berries depending on the season.
For crunch, I toss in sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dressing adds warmth in cooler months.
I use balsamic vinegar instead of cider vinegar for a deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store the dressing separately and toss the salad fresh when I’m ready to eat. The undressed salad will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Once dressed, it’s best enjoyed immediately, as the spinach and apples can wilt or brown. No reheating is needed. Nourishing Spinach and Apple Salad Recipe

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, I prep all the components ahead and store them separately. I slice the apples last or toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.

What’s the best apple for this salad?

I like using crisp, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. For tartness, I go with Granny Smith.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely. I just skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and choose maple syrup over honey in the dressing.

How do I toast the nuts?

I place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. It really enhances their flavor.

Can I use a different green instead of spinach?

Yes, I often swap in arugula, mixed greens, or kale (massaged with a bit of oil) for a different texture or flavor.

Conclusion

This Nourishing Spinach and Apple Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and feel-good dish I love having on repeat. It’s easy to put together, packed with texture and nutrients, and endlessly versatile. Whether I’m serving it as a side, a main, or bringing it to a gathering, it’s always a bright, welcome bite.