Description
This Christmas Salad Recipe is a vibrant and festive dish combining mixed greens, sweet pomegranate seeds, tangy goat cheese or feta, crunchy candied nuts, and crisp apple or pear slices. Tossed with a light, homemade vinaigrette featuring olive oil and balsamic vinegar, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures ideal for holiday gatherings or a refreshing side dish year-round.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 5 cups mixed greens (such as baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/2 cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red apple or pear
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, crumbled goat cheese or feta, candied pecans or walnuts, thinly sliced red apple or pear, and red onion if using to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, along with salt and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well emulsified.
- Toss and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly and serve immediately for the freshest taste and crisp texture.
Notes
- This festive salad can be prepped ahead of time by keeping the dressing and sliced apples separate until ready to serve to prevent wilting and browning.
- For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or roasted butternut squash to the salad.
- Use either goat cheese or feta based on personal preference for tanginess and texture.
- Candied nuts add a lovely crunch and sweetness; substitute with plain nuts if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
