Embrace the spirit of the holidays with this delightful winter salad, brimming with seasonal produce and a burst of flavors that celebrate the season. With crisp greens, juicy fruits, and crunchy nuts, this salad is both a visual and culinary treat—perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Serve it slightly chilled or gently warmed for a comforting, festive twist.
Recipe Details
Prep time: 15 minutes
Additional time: 15 minutes for chilling
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, and kale)
- 1 cup chopped fresh apples (Fuji or Granny Smith)
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the base:
Rinse and dry your mixed salad greens thoroughly to ensure they stay crisp. Add them to a large serving bowl, gently fluffing them with your hands to create a light, airy base. - Add the fruit:
Chop the apples into bite-sized pieces just before assembling to prevent browning. Scatter the apple pieces evenly over the greens. Add the pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and juicy sweetness. - Mix in the festive additions:
Sprinkle the dried cranberries over the salad, followed by the chopped walnuts. If you prefer a slightly warm element, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, then add them to the bowl. - Dress the salad:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the top. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss the mixture gently from the bottom up, ensuring all ingredients get lightly coated without bruising the greens. - Season and enhance:
Taste and season with salt and pepper. For a savory, creamy contrast, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. If you want a warm serving option, toss the salad briefly in a warm (not hot) bowl or let it rest at room temperature for 5–7 minutes. - Chill before serving (optional):
For a crisp, refreshing finish, chill the salad for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld while keeping the texture vibrant and fresh.
Tips & Variations
- Add sweetness: Mix in sliced pears, mandarin oranges, or a handful of candied pecans for extra holiday flair.
- Boost the protein: Grilled chicken, roasted turkey leftovers, or seasoned chickpeas complement this salad beautifully.
- Enhance the flavor: A drizzle of honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon, or a pinch of cinnamon can add surprising depth.
- Make it warm: Lightly warm the vinaigrette before tossing to create a cozy, winter-inspired version.
Make-Ahead & Storage Notes
Prepare key components ahead of time by washing and drying the greens, chopping the fruit, and gathering the nuts and cranberries. Store each ingredient separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine everything in a bowl and add the dressing at the last moment to keep the texture crisp. Leftovers can be stored for up to one day, though the greens may soften slightly after dressing.