Optimized Refreshing Cranberry, Walnut, and Goat Cheese Salad with Fig Balsamic Dressing

Introduction

A bright, seasonal mix that pairs tart fresh cranberries with creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted walnuts the Cranberry, Walnut, and Goat Cheese Salad with Fig Balsamic Dressing brings color and contrast to any table. Perfect for holiday menus or a quick weeknight side, this salad delivers sweet-tart flavor, satisfying texture, and a ready-in-minutes finish that makes entertaining simple. For a tasty appetizer pairing, try it alongside an antipasto cheese log like this Italian classic: https://cookaza.com/antipasto-italian-cheese-log/

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced flavors: tart cranberries, rich goat cheese, and a sweet-savory fig balsamic dressing create a harmonious bite.
• Quick and textural: toasted walnuts add crunch while mixed greens keep the salad light ideal as a side or a light meal.
• Versatile: this cranberry walnut salad scales easily and works year-round, especially in fall and winter when figs and cranberries shine.

Ingredients

A short, clear list to prep quickly: 4 cups mixed greens, 1 cup fresh cranberries, 1/2 cup walnuts (toasted), 1/2 cup goat cheese (crumbled), 1/2 cup fig balsamic dressing, salt and pepper to taste. Have the nuts toasted and the goat cheese crumbled so assembly is effortless.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cranberries, toasted walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
2. Drizzle the fig balsamic dressing evenly over the salad.
3. Toss gently to combine so the dressing coats but leaves texture intact.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately as a colorful side or a light, satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

• Toast walnuts until fragrant 4–6 minutes in a dry skillet for maximum crunch.
• Swap in dried cranberries if fresh aren’t available, but reduce any extra sweeteners in the dressing.
• Variation: add thinly sliced pear or apple for a fruity note, or replace walnuts with toasted pecans for a different nutty profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad beside roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a warm grain bowl. It also complements cheese boards and light antipasti plates for brunch or dinner.

FAQ

Conclusion

For more inspiration on fig-balsamic dressings and winter salad ideas, check out Winter Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts + Balsamic Fig Dressing and this super simple Winter Salad tossed in a Balsamic Fig Dressing – Casa.

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