Zesty Orange Cranberry Walnut Salad

Name: Zesty Orange Cranberry Walnut Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 large orange, segmented and juiced; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup finely chopped mint leaves; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 cup diced celery

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook:

🍽 Serves: 6

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Welcome to a delightful fusion of flavors with this Zesty Orange Cranberry Walnut Salad. Perfect for any season, this salad combines vibrant colors and a refreshing taste that will leave you craving more.

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Ingredients for Zesty Orange Cranberry Walnut Salad

Fresh cranberries provide a tart base that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the orange. Orange, both segmented and juiced, offers a juicy burst that complements the cranberries. Chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy fats. Honey sweetens the salad naturally, balancing the tartness of the cranberries. Mint leaves contribute a refreshing aroma and flavor, while orange zest intensifies the citrus profile. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth. Finally, diced celery brings a subtle crunch and freshness to the mix.

Tips & Tricks

For a deeper flavor, toast the walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
To easily segment the orange, cut off the top and bottom, then slice away the peel and pith before cutting between the membranes.
If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more honey to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a side dish for roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also pairs beautifully with a cheese platter, offering a refreshing contrast to rich cheeses. For a light lunch, serve it over a bed of mixed greens with some grilled chicken strips on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?: Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ. Dried cranberries are sweeter and less tart, so you might want to adjust the honey.
How long does this salad keep?: It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the texture is best on the first day.
Can I use other nuts?: Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work well as alternatives to walnuts.

Zesty Orange Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large bowl where you'll combine the main ingredients. Toss in the fresh cranberries with the segmented orange slices. This is where the magic begins as the colors start to pop.

Next, sprinkle in the chopped walnuts. They’ll add that nutty crunch that makes each bite satisfying. Now, in a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, orange zest, a pinch of salt, and the spices — ground cinnamon and nutmeg. This concoction is your dressing, which ties everything together.

Pour the dressing over your cranberry mixture and give it a gentle toss. You want every piece to be lightly coated without mashing the ingredients. Now, stir in the mint leaves and diced celery. These will add a fresh crunch and a hint of green to your salad.

Once everything is well mixed, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Refreshing blend of sweet and tart flavors.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a healthy weekday treat.
Quick and easy to prepare, with no cooking required.
Nutrient-packed with fresh fruits and nuts.
Can be made ahead, making it a stress-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries

1 large orange, segmented and juiced

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup finely chopped mint leaves

1 tablespoon orange zest

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 cup diced celery

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine fresh cranberries and segmented orange slices.

2. Add chopped walnuts to the bowl.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, orange zest, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.

4. Pour the dressing over the cranberry mixture and toss gently until well combined.

5. Add chopped mint leaves and diced celery, and gently mix again.

6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

7. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

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