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Festive Christmas Salad with colorful fruits and greens, perfect for a holiday meal.

BEST Christmas Salad EVER

This vibrant Christmas salad is a flavorful and texturally interesting addition to your holiday feast. It combines fresh greens, festive fruits, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a tangy maple-balsamic vinaigrette. It's a healthy and refreshing side dish that will impress your guests.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 5 oz baby spinach
  • 5 oz arugula
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds from approximately 2 pomegranates
  • 1 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1 cup candied pecans
  • 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
  2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly until emulsified.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine baby spinach, arugula, and chopped romaine lettuce.
  5. Add Festive Ingredients: Add pomegranate seeds, crumbled goat cheese, candied pecans, orange segments, and dried cranberries to the salad base.
  6. Dress and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the maple-balsamic vinaigrette over the salad.
  7. Toss gently to coat.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, dress the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. You can make the candied pecans and vinaigrette ahead of time. Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can substitute the goat cheese with feta cheese for a different flavor profile. Add grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier salad.