Mixed Greens Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese is a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, creamy, and crisp flavors in every bite. Tender mixed greens provide a light and refreshing base, while dried cranberries add a pop of sweetness, and creamy goat cheese lends richness and depth. Finished with a simple yet flavorful vinaigrette, this salad feels elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for everyday meals.
This salad is incredibly versatile—it works beautifully as a starter, a side dish, or even a light main course when paired with protein. Whether served at a holiday table, dinner party, or quick weeknight meal, it brings color, freshness, and sophistication to any plate.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s effortless yet impressive. It comes together in minutes but tastes like something from a restaurant. The contrast between the creamy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and crisp greens creates a flavor combination that never gets boring.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Works as a side or light main dish
- Customizable with seasonal ingredients
- Visually beautiful and crowd-pleasing
This salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Salad / Side Dish
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-Inspired
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 220 calories per serving
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix, arugula, baby spinach)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
- ¼ cup sliced almonds or walnuts (optional)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking Directions
- Prepare salad greens
- Whisk dressing
- Toss salad gently
- Serve immediately
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly using a salad spinner. Place them in a large salad bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Add dried cranberries, goat cheese, and nuts (if using) to the bowl with the greens.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve as a starter for dinner
- Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or steak
- Serve alongside pasta or roasted vegetables
- Add crusty bread on the side
- Enjoy as a light lunch
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh, dry greens to prevent sogginess
- Add dressing just before serving
- Crumble goat cheese gently for larger pieces
- Toast nuts for extra flavor
- Adjust sweetness based on cranberry tartness
Variations
Apple Cranberry Goat Cheese Salad
Add thinly sliced apples or pears for crunch.
Protein-Packed Salad
Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Citrus Vinaigrette Version
Use orange juice and zest instead of vinegar.
Vegan Version
Replace goat cheese with dairy-free cheese or avocado.
Grain-Enhanced Salad
Add cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier dish.
Freezing and Storage
Storage
- Store undressed salad ingredients separately for up to 2 days
- Store dressing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Freezing
- Freezing is not recommended due to delicate greens and cheese texture
Special Equipment Needed
- Large salad bowl
- Salad spinner
- Small bowl or jar for dressing
- Whisk or fork
Conclusion
Mixed Greens Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese is a refreshing, elegant dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of crisp greens, sweet cranberries, and creamy goat cheese makes it a reliable favorite for any occasion. Simple, beautiful, and endlessly adaptable, this salad deserves a place in your regular recipe rotation.
Mixed Greens Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese
Description
Mixed Greens Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese is a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, creamy, and crisp flavors in every bite. Tender mixed greens provide a light and refreshing base, while dried cranberries add a pop of sweetness, and creamy goat cheese lends richness and depth. Finished with a simple yet flavorful vinaigrette, this salad feels elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for everyday meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad
For the Dressing
Instructions
-
Prepare the Greens : Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly using a salad spinner. Place them in a large salad bowl.
-
Make the Dressing : In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
-
Assemble the Salad : Add dried cranberries, goat cheese, and nuts (if using) to the bowl with the greens.
-
Dress and Toss : Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
-
Serve : Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
