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Christmas Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Goat Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 63 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant Christmas Salad is a festive and refreshing mix of mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and crisp apple slices, all tossed in a flavorful balsamic glaze dressing. Perfect as a light appetizer or a side dish during holiday meals, this salad balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a delightful variety of textures.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 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 Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
  2. Add Apple Slices: Arrange the thin apple slices on top of the salad to add a sweet and colorful contrast, enhancing the festive appearance and flavor.
  3. 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 and smooth.
  4. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly without bruising the delicate greens and apples.
  5. Serve Immediately: Enjoy this fresh and flavorful Christmas Salad as a light appetizer or a refreshing side dish to complement your holiday meal.

Notes

  • For best flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  • You can substitute goat cheese with feta or blue cheese if preferred.
  • If balsamic glaze is not available, use a good quality balsamic vinaigrette or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a little sugar.
  • For a vegan version, omit the goat cheese and honey or substitute with agave syrup.
  • To keep the salad fresh, prepare the dressing separately and toss just before serving.