When it comes to holiday meals, it’s not just about the main course — the side dishes play a crucial role in making the celebration complete. One of the standout options for a holiday feast is a vibrant, refreshing Christmas salad. This festive salad features a perfect mix of sweet apples, tart pomegranate seeds, and crunchy nuts, all laid on a bed of fresh greens and topped with a delicious, tangy dressing. It’s colorful, nutritious, and adds a burst of flavor to your holiday spread.
Whether you’re looking for a showstopping starter or a healthy side dish to complement your holiday feast, this Christmas salad will become an instant favorite. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a delightful addition to your table.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or baby kale)
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji work best)
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Directions for the Christmas Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until smooth:
- Olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Honey (or maple syrup)
- Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper
Set the dressing aside while you prepare the salad.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl or platter, layer the following:
- Spread the mixed greens evenly as the base.
- Add the thinly sliced apples on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds over the apples, adding a pop of color and tartness.
- Scatter the candied nuts (pecans or walnuts) and dried cranberries for extra sweetness and crunch.
- If you like, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top for a creamy finish. This step is optional but adds a lovely tang to the salad.
Step 3: Add the Dressing
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients in the tangy-sweet dressing.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the salad immediately as a refreshing and festive side dish, perfect for any holiday gathering. Its vibrant colors and delightful combination of flavors will steal the spotlight on your holiday table!
Tips for a Perfect Festive Salad
- Substitute fruits: You can substitute the apples with pears for a different texture or add thinly sliced oranges for a citrusy twist that pairs wonderfully with the pomegranate.
- Toast the nuts: For even more flavor, toast plain pecans or walnuts lightly in a pan for a few minutes until golden and aromatic. This adds a deep, rich flavor to the nuts.
- Make it heartier: If you want to make the salad a more substantial dish, try adding grilled chicken or roasted butternut squash for extra protein and warmth.
- Cheese alternatives: If you’re not a fan of feta or goat cheese, blue cheese or parmesan shavings can be a great substitute.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours ahead, but avoid adding the dressing until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. Chill the salad in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What other greens can I use in this salad?
While mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and baby kale) work best for this festive salad, you can also use baby lettuce, spring mix, or even romaine lettuce for a different texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of feta or goat cheese, you can use blue cheese, parmesan, or even shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, omit the cheese or replace it with vegan feta or nut cheese. Use maple syrup instead of honey for the dressing.
Conclusion
This festive Christmas salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight with its rich colors and textures. With its combination of crunchy nuts, tart pomegranate seeds, sweet apples, and a tangy dressing, it’s the perfect dish to add to your holiday feast. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or as a side dish to your main course, this salad will leave a lasting impression on everyone at the table.
So, gather your ingredients, toss it all together, and enjoy a refreshing and festive side dish that captures the spirit of Christmas!