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Spinach and Orzo Salad with Cranberries and Almonds Recipe

Spinach and Orzo Salad with Cranberries and Almonds Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 26 reviews

A refreshing and nutritious Spinach and Orzo Salad featuring tender orzo pasta, fresh baby spinach, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted almonds, and vibrant red bell pepper, all tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider or balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, roughly chopped baby spinach, dried cranberries, diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion, and toasted sliced almonds. Mix gently.
  4. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Serve: Garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley and extra toasted almonds if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

  • To toast almonds, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and stir sliced almonds until they are golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  • You can substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins if preferred.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept chilled; just add dressing right before serving to keep spinach fresh.
  • For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
  • Orzo can be replaced with other small pasta shapes or quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spinach salad, Orzo salad, Cranberries, Almonds, Healthy salad, Mediterranean salad, Vegetarian lunch, Easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://maicook.com/spinach-and-orzo-salad-with-cranberries-and-almonds-recipe/