Easy Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds Salad Boost

Sophia

Founder of Vintage cooks

Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds

This post may contain affiliate links learn more.

There’s something about the crunch of toasted almonds mingling with tender spinach leaves that instantly brightens up a meal. When I discovered this Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds salad, it felt like a fresh twist on a classic side dish—vibrant, easy, and bursting with flavor. The sweet tang of honey mustard dressing perfectly balances the earthiness of spinach, while those almonds add just the right amount of nutty crunch. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple lunch or impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe quickly became my go-to for wholesome, satisfying bites that never feel boring. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s so addictive!

Why choose Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds?

Fresh Simplicity: This salad takes just minutes to prepare with minimal ingredients. Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing perfectly complements the earthy spinach. Crunch Factor: Toasted almonds add a satisfying crisp texture in every bite. Nutritious & Light: It’s a vibrant, wholesome dish that energizes without weighing you down. Versatile Side: Ideal for quick lunches, dinner sides, or a healthy snack that never feels dull.

Honey Mustard Spinspinach and Toasted Almonds Ingredients

For the Salad

Fresh baby spinach – Choose tender leaves for the best texture and vibrant color.
Toasted almonds – Lightly toast to unlock their rich, nutty flavor and add crunch.
Red onion – Thinly sliced to add a subtle sharpness that contrasts the sweet dressing.

For the Honey Mustard Dressing

Honey – Use raw honey for natural sweetness that balances the tanginess.
Dijon mustard – Adds depth and a gentle kick, key to the honey mustard flavor profile.
Olive oil – Provides a smooth, fruity base to bring the dressing together.
Apple cider vinegar – Introduces bright acidity to brighten the salad’s overall taste.
Salt and pepper – Just a pinch to enhance and round out all the flavors.

How to Make Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds

For the Honey Mustard Dressing:

Combine honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and emulsified, about 30 seconds.
Taste the dressing, adjusting its sweetness or tang by gradually stirring in extra honey or vinegar until it perfectly suits your palate’s balance.

For the Salad Assembly:

Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3–4 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
Slice red onion into thin ribbons (about 1/8 inch thick) to introduce crisp texture, vibrant color, and a mild, sharp contrast.
Toss baby spinach, toasted almonds, and sliced onion together in a large bowl until the ingredients are evenly distributed and ready to absorb the dressing.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then gently toss until each spinach leaf is glossy and coated with flavor in every bite.

Optional: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan for a savory twist.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds

Toast almonds carefully: Keep stirring almonds over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even, golden crunch every time.
Use fresh spinach: Choose vibrant, crisp baby spinach for the best texture and flavor—wilted leaves will water down the salad.
Balance the dressing: Taste and adjust the honey mustard dressing gradually; too much vinegar can overpower the salad’s sweet and nutty harmony.
Slice onions thinly: Thin ribbons of red onion add crunch without overwhelming the delicate flavors of spinach and almonds.
Dress just before serving: Toss the salad with dressing right before eating to keep spinach fresh and prevent sogginess.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep! You can mix the honey mustard dressing and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, the toasted almonds can be prepared in advance and kept in a separate container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their crunch. Just before serving, toss the fresh spinach with the almond slices, sliced red onion, and drizzle your dressing for a vibrant, restaurant-quality salad. By prepping in advance, you ensure your salad is just as delicious while saving valuable time on busy days!

What to Serve with Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds?

Elevate your meal by adding a few delightful accompaniments that enhance the fresh flavors of your salad.

Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and lightly seasoned, this protein pairs beautifully with the salad’s crunch and dressing.
Quinoa Pilaf: The nutty flavor and fluffy texture of quinoa create a wholesome side that mirrors the almond’s crunch beautifully.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the tangy dressing and offers a satisfying contrast in textures.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring earthy flavors and a caramelized sweetness that complements the freshness of the spinach.
Crispy Breadsticks: Crunchy yet soft on the inside, they are perfect for scooping up bits of salad, offering a delightful bite.
Chilled White Wine: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to elevate the honey mustard’s sweetness while adding a refreshing note.
Fruit and Nut Cheese Platter: A selection of tangy cheeses, sweet fruits, and nuts can create a lovely grazing board that pairs wonderfully with the salad.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, an airy mousse offers a rich yet light indulgence, rounding out the meal with a sweet finale.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds

Fridge: Keep the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The spinach may wilt, so it’s best to dress it just before serving.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the spinach and dressing won’t hold up well, affecting the flavor and texture.

Leftovers: If you have leftover honey mustard dressing, store it separately in the fridge for up to one week. It’s perfect for drizzling over other salads!

Reheating: If you’re using the toasted almonds in a warm dish, re-crisp them briefly in a skillet over medium heat before serving.

Variations & Substitutions for Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds

Feel free to make this delightful salad your own with these easy twists and substitutions that will excite your taste buds!

Nut-Free: Swap toasted almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to keep the crunch without the nuts. They add a similar texture and bring their own subtle flavor.
Vegan Dressing: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing for a completely vegan-friendly version, retaining that delicious sweetness you love.
Extra Greens: Incorporate arugula or kale for a peppery kick that complements the sweetness of the dressing. Mixing greens adds a pop of color and variety to each bite.
Fruit Addition: Toss in some sliced strawberries or diced apples for a refreshing fruity twist that pairs wonderfully with the honey mustard dressing. The sweetness balances the earthy spinach beautifully.
Hearty Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to transform this salad into a filling main dish. The protein makes it heartier while enhancing the nutrition profile, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Cheesy Flavor: Sprinkle feta or goat cheese over the top to introduce creamy tanginess that complements the salad perfectly. This adds both richness and a delightful contrast to the dressed spinach.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their salads. Just enough to awaken your palate without overwhelming the other flavors.
Citrus Burst: Squeeze in fresh lemon or orange juice within the dressing to elevate the flavors even further. The citrus adds brightness and a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with honey mustard.

Each variation is a chance to make the salad uniquely yours, inviting a world of flavors right to your table!

Honey Mustard Spinach and Toasted Almonds Salad Boost Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best spinach for this salad?
Choose fresh baby spinach leaves that are vibrant green and crisp without any dark spots or wilting. Tender leaves provide the best texture and flavor balance with the dressing and almonds.

Can I store the salad ahead of time? How long will it stay fresh?
You can prepare the salad ingredients separately, but I recommend tossing with the dressing just before serving to keep the spinach from wilting. If mixed, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the greens may soften slightly.

Is it possible to freeze this honey mustard salad or dressing?
The salad itself doesn’t freeze well—spinach becomes soggy and the dressing separates. However, you can freeze the honey mustard dressing alone in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a freezer bag and thaw in the fridge before use, up to 3 months.

What should I do if my almonds burn while toasting?
If you notice dark spots all over or a bitter smell, the almonds are likely burnt. I recommend starting over, toasting slowly over medium heat and stirring constantly to ensure even browning without scorching. Patience here pays off with perfect crunch!

Is this salad safe for pets to eat, or what about common allergies?
This salad contains almonds, which are not recommended for dogs or cats, so keep it away from pets. Also, those with nut allergies should substitute toasted almonds with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to enjoy the nutty crunch safely.