Craisin Spinach Salad

I love love love this salad in the fall, but I just made it the other day, and decided it was delicious, any time of the year. This recipe make a huge amount, it's perfect for company, but you'll probably want to cut it in half just to serve 4-6 people. I also like to add a can of mandarin oranges (drained) for some more flavor and color. I buy pre-toasted honey glazed almonds, but it is good with just the plain toasted ones, too. Save yourself some more work by purchasing pre-washed spinach leaves.

Craisin Spinach Salad

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3/4 cup almonds, blanched and slivered
• 1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces (one Sam's Club size tub)
• 1 cup craisins
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
  

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook and stir almonds in butter until lightly toasted. Remove from heat, and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the spinach with the toasted almonds and craisins.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sugar, onion, paprika, white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, and vegetable oil. Toss with spinach just before serving.