50+ Delicious Winter Spinach Salads to Keep You Healthy

Winter is a time when hearty meals often take center stage, but that doesn’t mean we should neglect the refreshing and nutritious benefits of salads.

Spinach, with its vibrant color and nutrient-dense profile, is an excellent choice for winter salads.

Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants, spinach can provide essential nutrients during the colder months when fresh produce is less abundant.

In this blog article, we’ll explore 50+ winter spinach salad recipes that combine the delightful flavors of winter ingredients with the health benefits of spinach.

Whether you’re looking for a light side dish to accompany your main course or a satisfying salad to serve as a meal, these recipes will inspire you to embrace the cold season with vibrant, wholesome salads.

Get ready to elevate your winter dining experience with the versatility of spinach!

50+ Delicious Winter Spinach Salads to Keep You Healthy

As winter settles in, it’s easy to stick with heavy, comforting meals.

However, incorporating spinach salads into your winter menu can add a refreshing touch while still providing essential nutrients and flavors.

The 50+ winter spinach salad recipes featured in this article showcase the versatility of spinach, allowing you to experiment with various ingredients, dressings, and toppings.

From hearty salads that can stand alone as a meal to lighter options that complement your main dishes, these recipes are perfect for any occasion.

So, why not embrace the season with a bowl full of greens? Your taste buds and body will thank you for it.

Winter Spinach Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

This vibrant spinach salad combines the earthiness of spinach with the bright, refreshing flavors of winter citrus fruits. The tangy citrus vinaigrette brings it all together, making it an invigorating addition to any winter meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup segmented grapefruit
• 1 cup segmented orange
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Citrus Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, grapefruit, orange, red onion, pecans, and feta cheese.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat.

This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, while the citrus fruits provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. The nuts add healthy fats and protein, making this salad a balanced and satisfying option for winter.

Warm Spinach Salad with Bacon and Mushrooms

This warm spinach salad is a comforting and hearty dish that highlights the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon. It’s a perfect way to enjoy spinach in a cozy, satisfying manner during the chilly months.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or button)
• 1/2 cup sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add the mushrooms and red onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the mixture, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Top the warm spinach mixture with the reserved bacon before serving.

This warm spinach salad is not only delicious but also makes for a comforting dish on a cold winter night. The combination of warm ingredients enhances the spinach’s flavor and creates a lovely contrast to the crispy bacon. It’s a salad that can easily serve as a main course or a delightful side, perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Spinach Salad with Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese

This elegant spinach salad features roasted beets and creamy goat cheese, providing a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the beets pairs beautifully with the tangy cheese, making it a standout dish for winter entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Allow them to cool, then peel and dice.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, roasted beets, goat cheese, walnuts, and pomegranate seeds.
3. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently to combine.

This salad not only offers a beautiful presentation but also provides a wealth of nutrients. Beets are known for their health benefits, including improved blood flow and lower blood pressure, while the goat cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the earthiness of the beets. The addition of pomegranate seeds provides a burst of sweetness and a festive touch, making this salad an excellent choice for winter gatherings or a sophisticated dinner party.

Spinach Salad with Apples and Cheddar

This refreshing spinach salad pairs crisp apples with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a wonderful balance of flavors. Tossed with a light dressing, it’s a perfect side dish for winter meals or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, apple slices, cheddar cheese, cranberries, and walnuts.
2. Drizzle the apple cider vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or a hearty winter soup. The crunchy apples and toasted walnuts provide a satisfying texture, while the sharp cheddar adds depth and richness. This salad can easily be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, bringing a touch of brightness to your winter dining experience.

Spinach Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Quinoa

This nutrient-dense salad features roasted sweet potatoes and quinoa, creating a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for winter. The combination of ingredients not only satisfies but also offers a range of vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup maple balsamic dressing

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, cooked quinoa, feta cheese, and pecans.
3. Drizzle the maple balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad is not only hearty and comforting but also offers a rich tapestry of flavors. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the nuttiness of the quinoa and the tanginess of the feta. Packed with nutrients, this dish is perfect for winter gatherings or as a meal prep option for busy weekdays, ensuring you stay nourished and energized.

Spinach Salad with Pomegranate and Avocado

This colorful spinach salad is bursting with the flavors of winter. The sweetness of pomegranate seeds and the creaminess of avocado create a refreshing contrast, while the crunchy nuts add texture.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup lemon vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, avocado, pomegranate seeds, sliced almonds, and goat cheese.
2. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, offering a burst of freshness that can brighten up any winter meal. The creamy avocado and crunchy almonds create a satisfying mouthfeel, while the pomegranate seeds add a festive touch and a pop of color. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday meals or can serve as a light lunch, providing a healthy boost of nutrients to keep you feeling your best during the winter months.

Spinach Salad with Pears and Gorgonzola

This elegant spinach salad combines the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh pears with the bold creaminess of Gorgonzola cheese. Tossed in a light dressing, this salad is ideal for winter gatherings or a cozy meal at home.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 large ripe pear, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/4 cup candied pecans (or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, pear slices, Gorgonzola cheese, candied pecans, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to impress your guests. The crispness of the spinach and pears contrasts beautifully with the creamy Gorgonzola, while the candied nuts add a touch of sweetness and crunch. It’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious option for winter meals. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as a light lunch to savor the season’s bounty.

Spinach Salad with Citrus and Avocado

Bright and refreshing, this spinach salad features a zesty citrus dressing that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. The combination of citrus and avocado creates a creamy texture, making it a perfect winter salad.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 orange, segmented
• 1/2 grapefruit, segmented
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup honey-lime vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, diced avocado, orange segments, grapefruit segments, and sliced almonds.
2. Drizzle the honey-lime vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad is not only visually appealing but also brimming with nutrients. Spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the citrus fruits offer a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants. The creamy avocado adds healthy fats, and the toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch. This salad can be served as a vibrant side dish or enjoyed as a light meal on its own, making it versatile and perfect for any winter occasion.

Spinach Salad with Roasted Cauliflower and Tahini Dressing

This hearty spinach salad features roasted cauliflower, which adds a delicious depth of flavor and a satisfying bite. The creamy tahini dressing ties everything together, creating a comforting winter dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and tender.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and water until smooth. Adjust the water to achieve your desired dressing consistency.
3. In a large bowl, combine the spinach and roasted cauliflower. Drizzle with tahini dressing and toss gently to combine.

This salad not only brings together comforting winter flavors but also packs a nutritious punch. The roasted cauliflower adds fiber and vitamins, while the tahini dressing offers a creamy texture and healthy fats. It’s a warm, satisfying salad that can be served as a main dish or as a side, perfect for chilly winter evenings when you crave something hearty yet healthy.

Spinach Salad with Cranberries and Sunflower Seeds

This festive spinach salad is loaded with textures and flavors, featuring sweet dried cranberries and crunchy sunflower seeds. It’s a delightful addition to any winter meal or a nourishing lunch option.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, toasted
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup raspberry vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, cranberries, sunflower seeds, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle the raspberry vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.

This salad is not only vibrant and visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Spinach provides essential vitamins, while the dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness and antioxidants. The sunflower seeds contribute healthy fats and protein, making this salad a balanced and satisfying choice for any winter occasion. Serve it as a side dish for holiday dinners or as a standalone lunch for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Spinach Salad with Grilled Chicken and Avocado

This protein-packed spinach salad features grilled chicken and creamy avocado, creating a satisfying and filling meal. Tossed with a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for a nutritious winter lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup lemon vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, sliced grilled chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and blue cheese.
2. Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This hearty salad not only offers a delightful combination of flavors but also provides a healthy dose of protein, making it a well-rounded meal. The grilled chicken adds a savory element, while the creamy avocado and tangy blue cheese create a rich mouthfeel. This salad is ideal for meal prep or as a quick dinner option after a long day, ensuring you enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal even in the winter chill.

Spinach Salad with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

This savory spinach salad features roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon, making it a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for winter. The warm roasted vegetables bring a comforting element to the fresh spinach.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shaved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, roasted Brussels sprouts, bacon, sliced almonds, and parmesan cheese.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying crunch from the roasted Brussels sprouts and toasted almonds, while the bacon adds a savory, smoky element. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together, creating a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for winter dining. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course to warm you up on chilly days.

Spinach Salad with Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese

This vibrant spinach salad combines earthy roasted beets with creamy goat cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors. It’s a great way to enjoy winter produce and adds a beautiful pop of color to your table.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 cup orange segments (optional)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. To roast the beets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until fork-tender. Let them cool, peel, and dice.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, roasted beets, goat cheese, walnuts, and orange segments.
3. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

This salad not only looks stunning but also provides a wonderful array of flavors and textures. The earthy sweetness of the roasted beets pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. The addition of orange segments provides a refreshing burst of citrus, making this salad a bright spot in your winter meals. Enjoy it as a light lunch or as a side dish for roasted meats, elevating any winter dining experience.

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Spinach Salad with Quinoa and Cranberry Vinaigrette

This hearty spinach salad incorporates protein-packed quinoa and a homemade cranberry vinaigrette, creating a nutritious and flavorful dish. It’s a great option for a filling lunch or a festive holiday side.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup cranberry vinaigrette

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the cranberry vinaigrette with a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and diced red onion.
3. Drizzle the cranberry vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

This salad is both satisfying and nutritious, thanks to the protein and fiber from the quinoa and the healthy fats from the pecans. The cranberry vinaigrette adds a delightful tanginess that complements the sweetness of the cranberries, making this salad a perfect winter option. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or as a side, fitting beautifully into a holiday spread or a cozy winter dinner.

Spinach Salad with Grilled Steak and Chimichurri

This hearty spinach salad features grilled steak topped with zesty chimichurri sauce, making it a satisfying meal for winter. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a fresh salad while incorporating protein to keep you full.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 8 oz flank steak (or your choice of steak)
• 1/4 cup chimichurri sauce
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Top with sliced steak and drizzle with chimichurri sauce. Toss gently to combine.

This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of winter while providing a hearty and satisfying meal. The rich chimichurri sauce adds a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the grilled steak and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a delicious and nutritious salad. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread for a complete winter feast!

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!