Sugar Toasted Almond Spinach Salad
Are you looking for a salad that’s equally impressive and delicious? This Sugar Toasted Almond Spinach Salad perfectly combines flavors and textures, making it the ideal dish for any gathering. The combination of spinach, oranges, and almonds makes this a standout among the Spinach Orange Salad Recipes. It’s simple to make and a hit at barbecues, promising delightful tastes and robust nutrition.
Yield and Preparation
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 12
Yield: 12 servings
Spinach Orange Salad Recipes: Ingredients
To create this delectable salad, gather the following ingredients:
• ½ cup slivered almonds
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• ¾ cup red wine vinegar
• ⅓ cup salad oil
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• ¾ tablespoon poppy seeds
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 head romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (6 ounce) bag baby spinach leaves
• ¾ pound sliced mushrooms
• ¾ pound shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 cup mandarin oranges
Optional: Swap the mandarin oranges for dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.
Instructions for Sugar Toasted Almond Spinach Salad
Follow these steps to make your Spinach Orange Salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Toasted Almonds
1. Preheat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Stir in the slivered almonds and 3 tablespoons of sugar.
3. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and caramelizes, and the almonds are toasted. This should take about 3 minutes.
4. Transfer the toasted almonds onto parchment paper to cool. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
5. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, salad oil, ⅓ cup of sugar, mustard, poppy seeds, and salt until well combined.
6. The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator (for best flavor, allow to reach room temperature before serving).
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
7. In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, baby spinach, sliced mushrooms, shredded Swiss cheese, and chopped red onion.
8. Add the cooled sugar toasted almonds and mandarin oranges.
9. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Healthier Cooking Option
For those watching their calorie intake, consider reducing the sugar amount in the dressing. Swap the Swiss cheese for a lower-calorie cheese or opt for a dressing made with less oil, such as an orange vinaigrette. This can significantly cut down on the fat and calories while still delivering a burst of flavor.
Why Love Spinach Orange Salad Recipes?
This recipe combines nutritious and tasty ingredients into an easy-to-make dish. Moreover, it is packed with iron-rich spinach and vitamin C-loaded oranges, promoting overall wellness. Above all, the flavors blend together exquisitely to create a harmonious and irresistible experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
In conclusion, the mix of almonds, spinach, and oranges makes this Sugar Toasted Almond Spinach Salad a must-try. The dish’s vibrant colors and fresh flavors impress at gatherings and satisfy on a regular day. Try adding this salad to your menu, and enjoy the wholesome goodness with every bite.
