I’ve always believed that every holiday table needs a dish that’s as fresh and festive as the season itself, and this Christmas Salad is exactly that.
It’s vibrant, flavorful, and so easy to put together, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
The mix of sweet oranges, tangy pomegranate seeds, and crunchy candied pecans makes every bite a little celebration.
If you’re looking for something that balances out all the rich holiday dishes, this salad is perfect.
Let me walk you through how to make this quick and stunning addition to your Christmas menu!
Why Everyone Loves This Christmas Salad
This Christmas Salad fits perfectly into any Christmas meal. I love how fresh and colorful it looks on the table.
The sweet oranges, crunchy candied pecans, and tangy feta work so well together, and you can feel good about serving something lighter when everything else feels so rich.
You don’t need a ton of time to put it together, which is a huge help during the holidays.
It’s one of those dishes you can quickly toss and know it’ll impress everyone.
I’ve made this for family gatherings, and people always ask for the recipe—it’s that good.
You’ll love how simple it is, but it still feels special enough for Christmas dinner.
What You Need for This Christmas Salad
- Mixed Spring Greens: These greens create a fresh and light foundation for the salad. They’re mild enough to let the other ingredients shine but add just the right texture to every bite.
- Orange Segments: The sweet, juicy flavor of oranges brings a refreshing touch to the salad. I love using mandarins or clementines—they’re easy to peel and perfect for a festive vibe.
- Pomegranate Seeds: These little bursts of tartness and crunch are what make the salad feel truly special. Their bright red color adds a holiday flair that’s hard to miss.
- Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta cheese balances the sweetness from the fruit. It adds just the right amount of richness without overpowering the dish.
- Candied Pecans: Sweet and crunchy, these are the ultimate topping. They bring texture and a little extra sweetness that makes every bite satisfying.
- Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil ties everything together, adding a smooth and rich base for the dressing.
- Honey: A touch of honey adds the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the tangy elements of the salad.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard gives the dressing a bit of depth and a slight sharpness that complements the sweeter flavors.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This light, zesty vinegar keeps the dressing fresh and bright, making it perfect for a holiday salad.
- Shallot: Minced shallot adds a subtle savory layer to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering it.
- Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt and a few cracks of pepper bring the dressing together and enhance the flavors of the salad.
Step-by-Step to Make Christmas Salad
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse and dry the mixed spring greens thoroughly to keep them crisp.
- Peel and segment the oranges, removing any seeds or membranes.
- If using fresh pomegranate, carefully remove the seeds. Roughly chop the candied pecans for easier bites.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon minced shallot.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed spring greens as the base.
- Arrange the orange segments, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and candied pecans on top for a beautiful presentation.
4. Add the Dressing
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, starting with a little and adding more as needed.
- Gently toss the salad to coat everything evenly, or leave it layered and serve the dressing on the side.
5. Serve Fresh
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp greens and fresh flavors.
- If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, just prep everything ahead—wash the greens, segment the oranges, and make the dressing. Keep it all separate and toss it together right before serving. That way, it stays fresh and crisp.
2. What if I don’t like feta cheese?
No worries! Goat cheese is a great swap, or you can leave the cheese out entirely. You can make it work with what you like.
3. Is there a vegan version of this salad?
Totally! Use a plant-based cheese or skip it, and swap the honey in the dressing for maple syrup. It’s still just as good.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the salad and dressing separate in the fridge. Toss them together when you’re ready to eat, and it’ll still taste fresh the next day.
5. What can I serve this salad with?
I love pairing it with turkey, ham, or even a cozy casserole. It’s light and works with almost any holiday dish.
Christmas Salad Recipe
This Christmas Salad is a perfect mix of fresh greens, sweet oranges, tangy pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, crunchy candied pecans, and savory slices of homemade ham, all drizzled with a light golden dressing. It's an easy and elegant addition to your holiday table.
Christmas Salad Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare Ingredients
Wash and dry the greens. Peel and segment the oranges. Remove pomegranate seeds and roughly chop the candied pecans. -
Make Dressing
Whisk olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, shallot, salt, and pepper until smooth. -
Assemble Salad
Layer the greens, oranges, pomegranate seeds, feta, pecans, and mint leaves in a large bowl. -
Add Dressing
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. -
Serve
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 260kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 4.5g23%
- Cholesterol 15mg5%
- Sodium 200mg9%
- Potassium 280mg8%
- Total Carbohydrate 22g8%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 16g
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
