why make this recipe
This salad adds bright color and fresh taste to your holiday table. It mixes sweet fruit, salty cheese, and crunchy nuts. It is quick to make and looks festive. It fits with many main dishes and makes guests happy.
introduction
This Christmas Salad is light and fresh. The greens, citrus, pomegranate seeds, feta, and candied pecans make a nice mix of flavors and textures. You can make it the day you serve it. If you want a sweet holiday dessert to go with it, try this Christmas Eve custard pie recipe.
how to make Christmas Salad
- Wash and dry the mixed greens.
- Peel and separate the orange segments if needed.
- Add the greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries), feta, and candied pecans to a large bowl.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Drizzle dressing over salad to taste and toss gently.
- Serve right away so the greens stay crisp.
Ingredients :
For the Salad
- 7 cups mixed spring greens
- 1 1/4 cups orange segments (mandarin, clementine, or tangerine)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
Add salad ingredients to a large bowl.
Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
Drizzle dressing over salad to taste.
Toss gently to coat and serve immediately.
how to serve Christmas Salad
Place the salad in a shallow bowl or on a large platter so the colors show. Serve right after you toss it. Offer extra dressing on the side for guests who want more.
how to store Christmas Salad
Store the salad components separately if you make them ahead. Keep greens in a sealed container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Store dressing in a jar in the fridge. Combine and toss just before serving. Eat within 1 day for best texture.
tips to make Christmas Salad
- Dry greens well so the dressing does not make them soggy.
- Use fresh citrus for the best flavor.
- Chop pecans roughly for easy bites.
- Taste the dressing and adjust honey or vinegar to your liking.
- Add the dressing little by little to avoid overdressing.
variation (if any)
- Swap feta for goat cheese or blue cheese.
- Use toasted walnuts or almonds instead of candied pecans.
- Add sliced apple or pear for more fruit.
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a deeper flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bottled dressing instead of homemade?
A: Yes. Use a light vinaigrette and add a little honey to mimic the recipe.
Q: Can I make this salad a few hours ahead?
A: Keep greens and dressing separate. Toss just before serving.
Q: What if I do not have pomegranate seeds?
A: Use dried cranberries or fresh raspberries for color and sweetness.
Q: Is this salad good for a large party?
A: Yes. Double the ingredients and toss in a very large bowl just before serving.
Conclusion
For more ideas and a similar festive salad, see the Christmas Salad Recipe – Dinner at the Zoo.
Christmas Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and dry the mixed greens.
- Peel and separate the orange segments if needed.
- Add the greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries), feta, and candied pecans to a large bowl.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Drizzle dressing over salad to taste and toss gently.
- Serve right away so the greens stay crisp.