Christmas Salad Recipe

When it’s time to gather around the holiday table, few dishes capture the spirit of the season like a Christmas Salad. With its blend of vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and festive flavors, this salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Packed with seasonal fruits, greens, nuts, and a tangy dressing, this dish is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and refreshing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this show-stopping salad for your holiday spread.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, and kale work great)
• 1 cup pomegranate arils
• 1 large red apple, thinly sliced
• 1 large green apple, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup candied pecans (or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ons

• Orange or mandarin segments
• Sliced avocado for creaminess
• Cooked quinoa for extra protein

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. This ensures the dressing adheres well.
• Slice the red and green apples thinly, leaving the skin on for added color and texture.
• Gather all the toppings (pomegranate arils, cranberries, nuts, etc.) in separate bowls for easy assembly.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or acidity as needed. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens as the base.
• Arrange the apple slices on top in a circular pattern for a festive touch.
• Sprinkle the pomegranate arils, dried cranberries, red onion slices, and candied pecans over the greens.
• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese if using.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

• Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• For a final flourish, garnish the salad with additional pomegranate arils or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
• Serve immediately for the freshest taste and presentation.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Christmas Salad with a roasted turkey, ham, or a hearty vegetarian main dish like stuffed squash.
• Serve as a light starter to balance richer holiday courses.

Storage

• Salad Greens: Keep undressed in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Dressing: Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
• Pro Tip: Assemble the salad without the dressing if preparing ahead. Add the apples and dressing right before serving to prevent sogginess.

Helpful Notes

1. Nut-Free Version: Replace candied nuts with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
2. Cheese Options: Swap feta for blue cheese or omit entirely for a dairy-free option.
3. Fruit Variety: Swap apples for pears, or add fresh berries for a twist.
4. Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Jamie Oliver: “Massage kale leaves with a drizzle of olive oil before adding them to the salad for a softer texture and enhanced flavor.”
• Ina Garten: “Use fresh, in-season produce for the best-tasting salad. Pomegranate arils can be prepped ahead for convenience.”
• Martha Stewart: “Candied nuts elevate a salad’s crunch factor. Toast them lightly for extra aroma.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the ingredients separately and assemble them just before serving.

2. What’s the best way to deseed a pomegranate?

Cut the pomegranate in half, hold it over a bowl, and tap the back with a spoon to release the arils.

3. What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

Substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for similar acidity.

4. Can I add meat to this salad?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken or thinly sliced turkey make excellent additions.

5. What greens work best for this salad?

A mix of arugula, spinach, and baby kale offers a great balance of flavors and textures.

6. How do I keep apples from browning?

Toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation.

7. Is this salad kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweet cranberries, apples, and candied nuts make it appealing to kids. Omit onions if they’re not a hit.

8. Can I use store-bought dressing?

Of course! Look for a high-quality balsamic vinaigrette or poppyseed dressing for convenience.

9. What wine pairs well with this salad?

A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the fruity flavors.

10. How can I make the salad more filling?

Add cooked quinoa, farro, or grilled tofu for a protein boost.