Spinach Salad with Clementine & Almonds
This vibrant Spinach Salad with Clementine & Almonds is a light yet satisfying meal, bursting with fresh flavors and varied textures. It combines tender spinach, juicy clementine segments, salty feta, and crunchy toasted almonds, all brought together with a bright lemon vinaigrette.
For 2 servings
If your almonds are not pre-toasted, spread the slivered almonds in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Peel the clementines and separate them into individual segments. For a more refined presentation, you can carefully remove any white pith or membrane from each segment.
In a small bowl or jar, prepare the vinaigrette: combine the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake well until the dressing is emulsified and thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
In a large salad bowl, place the washed and thoroughly dried baby spinach. Ensure the spinach is very dry to prevent a watery dressing.
Add the prepared clementine segments, crumbled feta cheese, and cooled toasted slivered almonds to the bowl with the spinach.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve immediately as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always dry your greens thoroughly after washing. Excess water can dilute the dressing and make your salad soggy.
- 2For meal prep, keep the dressing separate and only dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
- 3Experiment with different citrus fruits like mandarins or oranges for a slightly varied sweet and tangy note.
- 4To ensure even coating without bruising delicate greens, use salad tongs and a gentle lifting motion when tossing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken breast, pan-seared shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Nut & Seed SwapNut & Seed Swap
Substitute walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for almonds, or add a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra omega-3s.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Try goat cheese for a creamier, tangier profile, or omit cheese for a dairy-free option.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins & Minerals
Spinach is packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folate, while clementines provide a good source of Vitamin C, supporting immunity and skin health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Almonds and olive oil contribute monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
High in Fiber
The spinach and clementines offer dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting satiety, and contributing to stable blood sugar levels.
Frequently asked questions
You can prep the ingredients (wash spinach, peel clementines, toast almonds, make dressing) and store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
