Name: Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple & Gorgonzola Wonder
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 5 cups Baby Spinach (the crunchy base that adds nutritional value and freshness); 1 large Honeycrisp Apple (sweet-tart fruit that brightens the dish); 1/4 cup Sliced Red Onion (provides a zesty bite; substitute with sweet onions for a milder taste); 1/2 cup Mandarin Oranges (juicy and vibrant; can be replaced with fresh orange segments); 1/2 cup Candied Walnuts (add delightful sweetness and crunch); 1/4 cup Pomegranate Seeds (offer festive pops of color and flavor; feel free to omit if not available); 1/2 cup Crumbled Gorgonzola Cheese (gives rich creaminess; feta or goat cheese are great alternatives); 1 clove Garlic (minced) (enhances flavor; omit if garlic isn’t your favorite); 2 tablespoons Champagne Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (tangy base for the dressing); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (adds richness and binds the dressing together); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (imparts aromatic notes; dried thyme is a suitable substitute); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (for a spicy depth; yellow mustard can replace it); 1 tablespoon Honey (balances the acidity; maple syrup is a vegan alternative); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (essential for enhancing all flavors)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the chilly winds of winter sweep in, I often find myself longing for vibrant dishes that not only satisfy but also warm the soul. That’s when this Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple, Gorgonzola & Walnuts makes its glorious debut on my table. Imagine the first bite: crisp baby spinach that pops with freshness, paired with the sweet crunch of honeycrisp apples, and the creamy richness of gorgonzola. Toss in some candied walnuts for that perfect touch of sweetness, and you’ve got an explosion of flavors and textures that makes every forkful a delightful experience.

This salad is more than just a feast for the senses; it’s the ideal dish for both cozy winter dinners and festive gatherings. The light champagne vinaigrette ties everything together with a refreshing tang, ensuring this salad stands out, whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with family. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can adapt it to suit any palate. Ready to brighten your winter meals? Let’s dive into this deliciously festive recipe that’s as nourishing as it is beautiful!

Why will you love this Delicious Fresh Winter Salad?

Vibrant Colors: This salad is a visual feast, showcasing beautiful greens and bold colors that instantly brighten up any table.
Flavor Explosion: Every bite offers an incredible blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that delight the taste buds.
Customizable Options: Easily swap ingredients like honeycrisp apples for tart Granny Smith or go for different cheeses to make it your own.
Perfect for Entertaining: Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad impresses guests with minimal effort.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in just a few minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
Plus, if you’re looking for more light and refreshing options, don’t forget to check out this Apple Arugula Salad!

Delicious Fresh Winter Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Baby Spinach – the crunchy base that adds nutritional value and freshness.
• Honeycrisp Apple – sweet-tart fruit that brightens the dish; can be swapped with Granny Smith for a more tart flavor.
• Sliced Red Onion – provides a zesty bite; substitute with sweet onions for a milder taste.
• Mandarin Oranges – juicy and vibrant, these can be replaced with fresh orange segments.
• Candied Walnuts – add delightful sweetness and crunch; regular walnuts can be used for a less sweet option.
• Pomegranate Seeds – offer festive pops of color and flavor; feel free to omit if not available.
• Crumbled Gorgonzola Cheese – gives rich creaminess; feta or goat cheese are great alternatives.

For the Dressing
• Garlic Clove (minced) – enhances flavor in the dressing; omit if garlic isn’t your favorite.
• Champagne Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar – tangy base for the dressing, regular vinegar can also work well.
• Olive Oil – adds richness and binds your dressing together.
• Fresh Thyme – imparts aromatic notes; dried thyme is a suitable substitute.
• Dijon Mustard – for a spicy depth; yellow mustard can replace it.
• Honey – balances the acidity perfectly; maple syrup is a vegan alternative.
• Salt – essential for enhancing all flavors.

Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, let’s get ready to toss together this Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple, Gorgonzola & Walnuts and wow your taste buds!

How to Make Delicious Fresh Winter Salad

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, vinegar, olive oil, thyme, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Assemble Salad Greens: In a spacious serving bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced honeycrisp apple, and red onion for a crisp foundation. The colors will look stunning!
Add Fruits and Nuts: Scatter mandarin oranges, candied walnuts, and pomegranate seeds over your spinach mixture for an inviting touch of sweetness and crunch.
Crumble the Cheese: Generously crumble gorgonzola cheese over the top, ensuring every bite will be rich and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
Dress the Salad: Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad, then toss gently to evenly coat the ingredients and protect that lovely crunch.
Serve Immediately: Present the salad in elegant bowls, or leave it in the serving bowl for a rustic touch. Enjoy the fresh flavors right away!

Optional: Garnish with additional pomegranate seeds for an extra festive touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple, Gorgonzola & Walnuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply whisk together the garlic, vinegar, olive oil, thyme, mustard, honey, and salt, then refrigerate it in a sealed container. For the salad components, chop and slice your fruits and vegetables up to 24 hours ahead: store the spinach, apples, and onions separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Just remember, avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to preserve that lovely crunch! When it’s time to eat, assemble the salad, toss with the dressing, and enjoy a fresh, vibrant meal that saves you time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple, Gorgonzola & Walnuts?

This delightful salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing your meal and bringing warmth to your winter gatherings.

Hearty Quiche: A slice of rich quiche provides a savory contrast to the salad’s fresh flavors, making for a satisfying meal.
Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated roasted chicken complements the salad’s sweetness, adding a comforting protein to your dining experience.
Crusty Bread: Freshly baked artisan bread is perfect for nibbling alongside the salad, soaking up any remaining dressing with each bite.
Butternut Squash Soup: The warmth and creaminess of this velvety soup creates a cozy balance with the crisp freshness of the salad.
Grilled Shrimp: Lightly seasoned grilled shrimp adds a smoky touch, enhancing the salad’s flavor profile while providing a delicious protein source.
Sparkling Apple Cider: For a festive drink option, a glass of sparkling apple cider beautifully echoes the apple notes in the salad, creating a joyous pairing.
Chocolate Mousse: Finish with a light dessert like chocolate mousse, which offers a rich contrast to the salad’s bright and tangy elements.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, perhaps with some fig jam, provides a delightful nibble that complements the gorgonzola beautifully.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy, caramelized sweet potato wedges pair nicely, providing a hearty accompaniment that balances the salad’s lightness.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink enhances the cozy atmosphere while echoing the winter theme of your meal.

Tips for the Best Winter Salad

Dressing in Advance: Make the dressing a few hours ahead to enhance the flavors. Just remember to keep it stored separately until serving.
Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your spinach and other salad components are fresh; wilted greens can make the salad less appealing.
Gentle Tossing: When mixing everything together, use a soft touch to avoid bruising the baby spinach. This keeps it crisp and vibrant in your Delicious Fresh Winter Salad.
Serving Immediately: Dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens and the texture of the nuts.
Seasonal Variations: Feel free to adapt the recipe according to seasonal availability, swapping in different fruits or nuts for a uniquely delightful twist!

Delicious Fresh Winter Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this salad to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Sweet Pears: Swap honeycrisp apples for ripe, juicy pears to add a subtly sweet twist.
Grilled Chicken: For added protein, top the salad with slices of grilled chicken, making it more filling for main meals.
Roasted Beets: Incorporate roasted beets for an earthy flavor and an extra burst of color that enhances visual appeal.
Nut-Free: Omit the candied walnuts and add roasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who love a hint of heat.
Vegan Option: Replace gorgonzola with a cashew cheese or avocado for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that maintains richness.
Citrus Blend: Use a mix of citrus fruits like grapefruit or blood oranges instead of mandarin oranges for a refreshing zing.
Quinoa Boost: Add cooked quinoa to the salad for a nutty flavor and a hearty dose of protein and fiber.

How to Store and Freeze Delicious Fresh Winter Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the salad undressed to avoid wilting the greens and losing the delightful crunch.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the fresh ingredients do not retain their texture or flavor once thawed. Enjoy it fresh!

Reheating: This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating. Simply toss with dressing just before serving for the best taste and presentation.

Leftover Ingredients: If you have leftover components, like dressing or nuts, you can store those separately in the fridge for future use in other dishes.

Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple, Gorgonzola & Candied Walnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select firm, crisp honeycrisp apples without any soft spots or blemishes. Look for vibrant baby spinach with no wilting or dark spots, and choose pomegranate seeds that are plump and juicy for that extra burst of flavor.

How should I store leftover salad?
To keep your delicious fresh winter salad at its best, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure you keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting, and dress the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze this salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad, as the fresh ingredients do not hold up well in the freezer. The delicate textures of spinach and the crunchy nuts will turn mushy once thawed. For the best experience, enjoy your winter salad fresh and vibrant instead!

What should I do if my greens wilt before serving?
If your spinach starts to wilt, there are a couple of solutions! You can quickly refresh your salad by adding a splash of cold water or even ice cubes to the bowl and tossing gently. If it’s really far gone, consider slicing fresh spinach to mix in. Just remember to dress it right after for that lovely crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This salad is naturally gluten-free, but keep an eye on the ingredients for added allergens. Some individuals may be sensitive to nuts or dairy, so always check with your guests about their dietary restrictions. You can easily swap walnuts for seeds and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a welcoming dish.

How can I customize the flavors?
Oh, the more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like feta or goat cheese, for a new flavor profile. Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas is a wonderful way to boost protein and heartiness. Remember, seasonal ingredients are your friend, so don’t hesitate to use what’s available!