Nothing says “celebration” quite like a big, colorful Holiday Salad. It’s bright, fresh, and bursting with festive flavors that bring joy to any table. Whether you’re gathering for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy winter dinner with loved ones, this salad adds a beautiful pop of color and a burst of freshness that perfectly balances rich holiday dishes.
What’s even better? It’s incredibly easy to make! Simple ingredients—mixed greens, sweet fruit, tangy cheese, and a touch of crunch—come together with a light homemade dressing that ties it all beautifully. It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive but takes hardly any effort, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday cheer.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Salad / Side Dish |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~220 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
Salad
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, and baby kale)
- 1 cup pomegranate arils
- 1 medium apple, thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup toasted pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
Dressing
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the salad base
In a large salad bowl, add your mixed greens. Fluff them gently to create a light, airy base. - Add the toppings
Sprinkle in the pomegranate arils, apple slices, dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and cheese crumbles. - Whisk the dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly creamy. - Dress & toss
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss to coat everything evenly—make sure not to overdress! - Serve immediately
Serve the salad fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- To prevent soggy greens: Keep the dressing separate until right before serving.
- Make ahead: Chop all ingredients and store separately in airtight containers for up to 1 day.
- Toasting nuts: Toast nuts in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes until fragrant—it enhances flavor and crunch!
- Apple freshness tip: Dip apple slices in a little lemon water to prevent browning.
Recipe Variations
- Winter Citrus Twist: Add orange segments or blood oranges for a tangy, juicy flavor.
- Protein Boost: Top with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or chickpeas to make it a full meal.
- Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey and skip the cheese or replace it with vegan feta.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted turkey or ham during the holidays
- Baked salmon or chicken for a light dinner
- A side of crusty bread or roasted sweet potatoes for a cozy, balanced meal
Conclusion
This Holiday Salad is everything we love about festive cooking—colorful, fresh, and joyfully simple. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Serve it at your next gathering and watch everyone go back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Here’s to sharing good food and warm moments around the table.