Delicious Fresh Winter Salad with Spinach, Apple & Gorgonzola Wonder

A vibrant and flavorful winter salad featuring spinach, honeycrisp apples, gorgonzola, and walnuts, perfect for festive gatherings.

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Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Apple Salad, Festive Salad, Gorgonzola Salad, Spinach Salad, Walnut Salad, winter salad

Prep Time: 15

Total Time: 15

Servings: servings

Calories: 320kcal

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

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.
In a spacious serving bowl, combine baby spinach, sliced honeycrisp apple, and red onion for a crisp foundation.
Scatter mandarin oranges, candied walnuts, and pomegranate seeds over your spinach mixture for an inviting touch of sweetness and crunch.
Generously crumble gorgonzola cheese over the top.
Drizzle your prepared dressing over the salad, then toss gently to evenly coat the ingredients.
Present the salad in elegant bowls, or leave it in the serving bowl for a rustic touch. Enjoy the fresh flavors right away!

Dressing can be made a few hours ahead to enhance the flavors. Store separately until serving. Use fresh ingredients for the best results.