Cranberry Avocado Salad with Candied Spiced Almonds & Sweet White Balsamic Vinaigrette

There’s nothing quite like a salad that bursts with color and flavor, making every bite a delightful experience. Our Cranberry Avocado Salad with Candied Spiced Almonds & Sweet White Balsamic Vinaigrette is just that—a vibrant mix that combines sweet, tangy, and savory elements to create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a beautiful medley of textures and flavors. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries, while the candied spiced almonds add a delightful crunch. Topped with a sweet white balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a refreshing meal on its own.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Ingredients

Dressing:

• ½ cup sugar (60g)
• 1½ tablespoons poppy seeds
• 1½ tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried mustard
• 1 tablespoon minced sweet onion
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup white balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil (70 ml)
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (70 ml)

Salad:

• 12 ounces baby spinach, arugula, field greens (340g)
• 1 small bunch cilantro, washed and dried, leaves removed whole from stems
• 2 medium avocados, peeled and halved
• 1½ cups dried cranberries (115g)
• 1½ cups candied spiced almonds (115g)

Candied Spiced Almonds:

• 5 cups almonds, sliced, or a 1-pound package (600g)
• ½ cup sugar (100g)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or more to taste
• Sea salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Dressing:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, paprika, dried mustard, minced sweet onion, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Slowly add the white balsamic vinegar, whisking continuously.
3. Gradually incorporate the vegetable oil and olive oil, whisking until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.

Salad:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, arugula, and field greens.
2. Add the cilantro leaves, sliced avocados, dried cranberries, and candied spiced almonds.
3. Drizzle the sweet white balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Candied Spiced Almonds:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced almonds and sugar, stirring to coat the almonds evenly.
3. Sprinkle in the cinnamon, cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring until the almonds are evenly coated and lightly browned.
4. Season with sea salt to taste. Allow to cool before adding to the salad.

Tips for Success

• For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients, especially the greens and avocados.
• Make the dressing ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Toss the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Substitute toasted walnuts or pecans for the almonds if you prefer.
• Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a lighter version, use less sugar in the dressing.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is rich in healthy fats from the avocado and almonds, high in fiber thanks to the greens and cranberries, and a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the candied almonds ahead of time?
Yes, the candied almonds can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container.

What if I don’t have white balsamic vinegar?
You can substitute with regular balsamic vinegar, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Avocado Salad with Candied Spiced Almonds & Sweet White Balsamic Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. I invite you to make it at home and share your experience with me. Enjoy this refreshing, vibrant salad!