Description
A festive and refreshing Christmas Salad featuring mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, tangy goat cheese, crisp apple slices, and a sweet balsamic dressing, perfect as a light appetizer or side dish for holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Gala works best)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Apple Slices: Arrange the thin apple slices on top of the salad to add a colorful and sweet contrast.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze or vinaigrette, honey if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, then toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this festive salad as a light appetizer or a refreshing side dish alongside your holiday meal.
Notes
- Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Use Honeycrisp or Gala apples for the best texture and sweetness.
- Adjust the amount of honey in the dressing to your taste preference or omit it for a less sweet option.
- Serve the salad immediately to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta or blue cheese if preferred.
