Introduction
Gather ’round the table and get ready to celebrate the season with a delightful Christmas Salad that truly captures the spirit of the holidays! Bursting with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. Each bite is a harmonious blend of crisp mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries, all drizzled with a homemade honey-mustard dressing that brings everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, and kale)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
For the Honey-Mustard Dressing:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, diced red bell pepper, crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries. Give it a gentle toss to mix all the vibrant ingredients together.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Drizzle the luscious honey-mustard dressing over the salad, ensuring each ingredient is lightly coated.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate the salad for up to an hour to create a perfectly chilled dish.
Notes or Tips
This Christmas Salad is incredibly versatile! Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences—try adding sliced apples or pears for extra sweetness, or toss in some chickpeas for added protein. For a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts.
Cooking Techniques
Mixing the greens and toppings together gently is key to maintaining their crispness. When preparing the dressing, whisking it until smooth ensures that all the flavors meld perfectly, creating a rich and creamy texture that clings beautifully to the salad ingredients. For an extra burst of flavor, consider toasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What can I do with leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad will keep for a day, but the greens may become wilted. Enjoy it as a light lunch or snack!
Conclusion
This Christmas Salad with Honey-Mustard Dressing is the perfect addition to your holiday table. It’s not only a show-stopping dish that brings joy and color to your celebrations, but it’s also a healthy option that everyone can enjoy. So gather your ingredients, whip up the dressing, and let the festive flavors shine through in every bite. Cheers to good food and great company this holiday season!