Winter Salad W/Cranberries & Feta

Just popping in quick to share one of my most favorite salads with you.  Yes, those are sugared almonds.  Yes, that is one of the reasons its my favorite.  So sue me.

I like to call this my winter salad because it looks so fresh and crisp and clean and bright!  Like a cold, cloudless winter day.  Don’t you think?  Ok, the connection sounded better in my head….Also, its perfect to serve during the colder months because it doesn’t rely on an abundance of fresh produce.  Decent spinach and/or spring mix can be found most anytime of year nowadays, especially if you live in an area where they can still grow it during the colder months.  The rest of the ingredients aren’t seasonal, making it a great, fresh addition to winter menus that may be heavy with baked pastas, dairy laden casseroles, and football party food.  Add some grilled chicken on top and you have an incredibly speedy meal that won’t leave you feeling droopy.  Because feeling droopy is no bueno.

And can I just say that it is kinda pretty?  The colors of food get me every time and that is one of the reasons I come back to this salad again and again.  Side dish?  Yup.  Paired with a quick quiche?  You bet.  Topped with grilled chicken or steamed salmon?  Gaaaaaahhhh.  Come to momma.  It covers all the bases.  And don’t worry.  If you happen to eat it in April, and start calling it a Spring salad, I won’t tell a soul.
Winter Salad W/Cranberries, Feta, & Sugared Almonds
Like I mentioned above, sliced chicken or flaked salmon, cold or warm, is just about the best thing ever on top of this salad.

fresh spinach
dried cranberries
crumbled feta
sugared almonds
vinaigrette of your choice

Layer all the salad ingredients on a plate or in larger quantities in a serving bowl.  Light and simple vinaigrettes work best with this so be sure to avoid anything too heavy.  Enjoy!