Mandarin Orange Spinach Salad

1 Tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon sugar (sometimes I use a little extra :))
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/2 bad pre-packaged washed salad spinach
1 (10 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup Craisins

Cook sugar and almonds over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, set aside to cool. Mix spinach, oranges, and Craisins in a large bowl. When ready to serve, pour dressing over spinach and toss well. Sprinkle with almonds on top.

Dressing:
1/4 cup oil
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Shake all ingredients together in a jar with a tight lid.

Source: Courtney Walker, Wheaton Ward Cookbook, 2001