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Fresh Cranberry Walnut Feta Salad with Oranges

A vibrant salad featuring fresh cranberries, toasted walnuts, creamy feta, and juicy orange segments tossed in a honey-cider vinaigrette. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a nutritious, colorful dish.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Fruit Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 245

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries coarsely chopped
  • 6 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, and spring mix work well
  • 1 cup walnuts toasted and roughly chopped
  • 3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 2 medium oranges segmented (about 1 cup)
  • 1/3 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small jar with lid
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Food processor (optional)

Method
 

  1. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.
  2. Rinse cranberries and pulse in a food processor until coarsely chopped, or chop by hand. They should be in small pieces but not pureed.
  3. In a small jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Seal tightly and shake vigorously until emulsified.
  4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chopped cranberries, toasted walnuts, crumbled feta, orange segments, and thinly sliced red onion.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Start with about three-quarters of the dressing, then add more if needed after tasting.
  6. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
  7. For best flavor, let the dressed salad rest for 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator before serving.

Notes

  • For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken breast or turkey.
  • Dried cranberries can be substituted for fresh if necessary, though the flavor profile will change.
  • Prepare components separately if making ahead, and assemble just before serving.
  • Orange segments can be prepared a day ahead and stored in their juice.
  • This salad is best consumed within 24 hours once dressed.