Go Back

Christmas Salad

A bright, crunchy salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, candied nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette that’s ready in minutes.
Prep Time 12 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens spinach, arugula, or romaine, loosely packed
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries or dried cranberries
  • 3/4 cup candied pecans or walnuts roughly chopped
  • 1/4 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
  • 1 apple Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, thinly sliced or diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for vinaigrette
  • Whisk
  • chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Salad servers or tongs

Method
 

  1. Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly, then tear any large leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pecans or walnuts for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
  3. Remove nuts from heat and toss immediately with 1 tablespoon honey and a pinch of salt; let cool completely on a plate.
  4. Slice or dice the apple and, if desired, toss with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, remaining honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  6. Place dried greens in a large bowl, add sliced red onion and apple, and toss gently to combine.
  7. Scatter cooled candied nuts, cranberries, and crumbled cheese over the top of the greens and apples.
  8. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently, adding more dressing as needed to coat evenly.

Notes

Make ahead tip: keep greens, toppings, and dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.