This Christmas Salad is a colorful mix of fresh greens, crunchy nuts, and juicy fruits. The star of the show is the sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing that brings it all together!
Trust me, this salad is the perfect side dish for the holidays. I love how the flavors pop on my plate, and it makes eating greens feel like a special treat! 🎄🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: A variety of greens keeps this salad colorful and interesting. I like using a mix of baby spinach, romaine, and radicchio. If you can’t find radicchio, any other leafy green like arugula or kale can work well too.
Pomegranate Seeds: These add a lovely burst of flavor and color. If they’re out of season, dried cranberries or even cherries could be a tasty substitute. They will still give you that sweet-tart flavor!
Orange: Fresh orange segments add juiciness and sweetness. If you prefer something different, try grapefruit or mandarin oranges for a citrus twist. Canned oranges work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Pecans: Toasted pecans give crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a great alternative. You can also skip them altogether for a nut-free option.
How Do You Make a Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing?
Making the honey mustard dressing is simple, but it really ties the salad together! Here’s how to get it just right:
- In a small bowl, mix the honey and Dijon mustard until blended.
- Add the apple cider vinegar for a bit of tang. This balances the sweetness.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Don’t forget to taste! Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
For a creamier dressing, you can mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo. This adds richness and a nice texture!
Christmas Salad with a Sweet & Savory Honey Mustard Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups fresh mixed greens (such as baby spinach, romaine, and radicchio)
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans
For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Christmas salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick addition to your holiday spread. All you need to do is chop, mix, and toss, and you’ll have a beautiful salad ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Greens:
Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly. It’s important to remove any excess water so that the dressing sticks nicely. Once dry, place the greens in a large salad bowl as your base.
2. Add the Orange Segments:
Next, take your orange and carefully peel it, making sure to remove all the white pith. Segment the orange by cutting between the membranes, and remove any seeds you find. Gently add the orange segments to the bowl with the greens.
3. Incorporate the Pomegranate and Pecans:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the vibrant pomegranate seeds and the toasted pecans over the top of the salad. These add a wonderful crunch and a pop of color that makes your salad festive.
4. Whisk the Honey Mustard Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Gradually pour in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well blended and creamy. Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that everything is evenly coated in the delicious dressing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now that your Christmas salad is ready, serve it immediately! Enjoy the vibrant combination of flavors and textures—this salad is a delightful addition to any holiday meal!
Happy Holidays and happy eating! 🎄🥗
Can I Use Other Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different mix, feel free to use kale, arugula, or even just romaine. Just ensure they are fresh and well-washed for the best taste and texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the salad components separately. Place the greens, fruits, and nuts in an airtight container in the fridge, and keep the dressing in another container. This will help prevent the greens from getting soggy.
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare all the salad ingredients a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness. The dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.