The holidays are all about warmth, laughter, and gathering around the table with loved ones. While rich roasts and sweet treats often steal the spotlight, a bright and festive salad can be the perfect balance to a hearty Christmas spread.
This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is bursting with color, flavor, and holiday cheer. Crisp greens, juicy fruit, and crunchy nuts come together under a tangy-sweet dressing that feels both cozy and refreshing. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to grace your holiday table.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salad / Holiday Side | 15 minutes | 0 minutes | 6 | ~210 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries)
- 1 cup apple slices (thinly sliced, crisp variety like Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup pecans or walnuts, toasted
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dressing – In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the salad base – In a large serving bowl, add the salad greens.
- Add the toppings – Sprinkle in the pomegranate seeds, apple slices, toasted nuts, and crumbled cheese.
- Dress and toss – Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately – Garnish with a few extra pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Keep apples fresh: Toss apple slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Make ahead: The dressing can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Assemble salad right before serving.
- Balance tip: Taste the dressing and adjust—add more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Boost: Add sliced roasted chicken, turkey, or salmon for a heartier main dish.
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts or replace them with roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese crumbles for a bolder flavor, or omit cheese for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted meats like turkey, or prime rib for a complete Christmas feast.
- Serve alongside warm rolls and a hearty soup for a lighter holiday lunch.
- Add sparkling water or mulled cider for a festive pairing.
Conclusion
This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is a joyful, colorful addition to any holiday meal. It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced with a sweet-tangy dressing that ties it all together. Share it around the table, savor each bite, and let it bring a little extra sparkle to your Christmas celebrations.