Christmas Salad
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 220 mg
Why Make This Christmas Salad
This Christmas Salad is a vibrant and festive addition to any holiday gathering. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; each bite brings together a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The crunch of fresh mixed greens, the tartness of pomegranate seeds, and the creaminess of feta create a harmonious balance. This dish is not only healthy and refreshing, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect last-minute side or a centerpiece for your holiday table. Plus, its bright colors—reds, greens, and whites—make it visually appealing, embodying the spirit of Christmas!
How to Make Christmas Salad
Ingredients:
- Mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Pomegranate seeds
- Feta cheese
- Walnuts
- Balsamic vinaigrette
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and walnuts.
Step 2: Mixing
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
Step 3: Serving
Serve immediately on a large platter or individual bowls to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of the salad.
How to Serve Christmas Salad
This Christmas Salad shines when served as a festive side dish at holiday dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, enhancing their savory flavors with its refreshing crunch. You can also serve it as a light lunch option, adding some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
How to Store Christmas Salad
If you have leftovers, store your Christmas Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens and the other ingredients.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Salad
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure all your produce is fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Customize the greens: Feel free to mix in your favorites, like spinach or arugula, for a different flavor profile.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas can be added to turn this salad into a more substantial meal.
- Dress just before serving: To keep the salad vibrant, dress it only before serving.
- Make it nut-free: If you have allergies, simply leave out the walnuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds.
Delicious Variations
- Spinach Christmas Salad: Swap mixed greens for fresh spinach for a nutrient boost.
- Cranberry & Almond Salad: Replace pomegranate seeds with dried cranberries and walnuts with sliced almonds for a different flavor twist.
- Creamy Dressing Option: Instead of balsamic vinaigrette, try a honey mustard dressing for added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just mix them together and add the dressing right before serving. -
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or even shredded cheddar work well as substitutes. -
Do I have to use pomegranate seeds?
No, you can replace them with dried cranberries or sliced apples for a similar sweetness. -
Can this salad be made vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative and ensure your dressing is vegan-friendly. -
What is the best way to cut the red onion?
To avoid a sharp taste, soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. It will help mellow the flavor.
Conclusion
This Christmas Salad is a celebration of taste, texture, and color, making it a perfect dish for the festive season. Easy to prepare and full of delicious ingredients, it will surely impress your guests. Give this recipe a try, and let the flavors become a delightful tradition at your holiday gatherings! Enjoy every crunchy, sweet, and savory bite!
Print
Christmas Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and festive salad combining fresh mixed greens, tart pomegranate seeds, and creamy feta, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Pomegranate seeds
- Feta cheese
- Walnuts
- Balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and walnuts.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
- Serve immediately on a large platter or individual bowls to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of the salad.
Notes
Dress just before serving to keep the salad vibrant. Can be customized with different greens or proteins.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
