Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep most elements in advance. Wash and thoroughly dry the greens, then store them in a sealed container lined with paper towels. Segment the oranges and slice the apples, but keep them separate until just before assembling. Toast the pecans and crumble the cheese the day prior. Mix the citrus vinaigrette and refrigerate it—just give it a shake before serving. Assembling everything right before the meal keeps the salad crisp and fresh.

What types of greens should I use for a holiday‑themed salad?

For a festive look and hearty base, combine greens like romaine, baby spinach, arugula, or kale. Mixing textures enhances the mouthfeel, while the vibrant green backdrop beautifully highlights the colorful toppings like cranberries and pomegranate seeds.

How should I dress the greens so they don’t get soggy?

Avoid soggy salad by drying the greens thoroughly and adding the vinaigrette only at the last minute. You can also serve the dressing on the side. Acid in the dressing breaks down leaf structure, so timing is key. Keep everything chilled until just before serving for best results.

What are good seasonal ingredients to include in a holiday salad?

Seasonal winter fruits like oranges, apples, and pomegranate seeds are perfect. Add dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and feta cheese for flavor depth. Each of these ingredients not only celebrates seasonal availability but also enhances visual appeal and texture.

Christmas Salad: A Festive, Fresh & Flavorful Holiday Favorite

Description

Christmas Salad combines crisp greens, seasonal fruits, and citrus vinaigrette—perfectly refreshing for holiday dinners.

Ingredients

For the Salad:
- 5 ounces mixed salad greens
- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted, chopped pecans
For the Citrus Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice (from the segmented oranges)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

In a small bowl or jar, combine the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced shallot, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk or shake well until the vinaigrette is fully blended. Set aside.
Place the mixed greens on a serving platter or in a large salad bowl.
Arrange the sliced apples and orange segments evenly over the greens.
Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds, dried cranberries, crumbled feta, and chopped pecans over the top.
Serve the salad with the citrus vinaigrette on the side or drizzle just before serving. For best texture, serve immediately after assembling.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes
Category: Seasonal and Holiday Salads
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American