Description
This Christmas Salad is a colorful and festive side dish perfect for the holiday season. It combines fresh mixed greens, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, creamy goat cheese, and tangy balsamic glaze, making it a delightful addition to your Christmas meal. Easy to prepare in just 10 minutes, this salad is the ideal way to add a burst of flavor and texture to your holiday spread.
Ingredients
4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans, toasted
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala works best)
1/4 cup balsamic glaze or vinaigrette
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, goat cheese, and red onion.
- Add Apple Slices: Arrange the thin apple slices on top of the salad for a colorful and sweet contrast.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze (or vinaigrette), honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, then toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this festive salad as a light appetizer or refreshing side dish for your holiday meal.
Notes
Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted turkey.
Swap Greens: Feel free to use kale, baby spinach, or romaine instead of mixed greens.
Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts or almonds if you don’t have pecans on hand.
Cheese Substitutes: Feta cheese or blue cheese can replace goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: No-cook, Toss
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 180 kcal
