Festive Winter Salad

This vibrant winter salad combines fresh mixed greens, bright citrus, jeweled pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, and candied pecans for a festive dish that brightens even the darkest winter days. The simple homemade dressing brings everything together with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

I first created this salad for a Christmas dinner when I needed something light to balance the heavier holiday dishes. The colorful ingredients reminded me of ornaments on a tree, and it has since become my go to recipe for winter entertaining.

Ingredients

• Mixed spring greens provide the perfect base with their variety of flavors and textures
• Orange segments bring sweet juicy brightness that cuts through winter heaviness
• Pomegranate seeds add jewel toned pops of color and bursts of tart sweetness
• Feta cheese contributes creamy tanginess that balances the sweet elements
• Candied pecans deliver satisfying crunch and warmth with their caramelized coating
• Olive oil forms the silky base of our dressing with healthy fats
• Honey adds natural sweetness that complements the fruit
• Dijon mustard works as both an emulsifier and flavor enhancer
• Apple cider vinegar provides the perfect tangy counterpoint to the sweet components
• Shallot gives a gentle aromatic bite that elevates the entire dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base

Gently place your mixed greens in a large serving bowl, making sure they're clean and dry. The variety of greens provides different textures and flavors, creating an interesting foundation for the other ingredients.

Add Colorful Elements

Arrange the orange segments and pomegranate seeds over the greens. These fruit elements should be distributed evenly so every serving gets these bright pops of flavor. The contrast between the sweet oranges and tart pomegranate creates a wonderful flavor balance.

Sprinkle the Cheese and Nuts

Distribute the crumbled feta and chopped candied pecans across the salad. These ingredients add richness and texture, so be generous but thoughtful with their placement. The feta should be fresh and crumbly for the best flavor.

Create the Dressing

Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk vigorously until emulsified. The mustard helps bind the oil and vinegar, creating a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, remembering that the salad already has salty feta.

Dress and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, using only enough to lightly coat the ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure even distribution without bruising the delicate greens. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

Bookmark

The pomegranate seeds are truly the star of this winter salad. I remember the first time my daughter helped me break open a pomegranate, her eyes widening as we revealed the ruby gems inside. Now desseeding pomegranates together has become our special kitchen ritual during the holiday season.

Storage Tips

The undressed salad components can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to two days. Keep the greens with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. The dressing will keep in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week, just bring to room temperature and shake well before using. Once dressed, this salad is best enjoyed immediately as the greens will begin to wilt from the acidity in the dressing.

Easy Substitutions

This salad welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Baby spinach or arugula can replace mixed greens for a different flavor profile. Dried cranberries make an excellent substitute for pomegranate seeds when out of season. Blue cheese or goat cheese can step in for feta if preferred. Walnuts or almonds can replace pecans, just toast them with a bit of honey and cinnamon to maintain that sweet crunch. For the dressing, lemon juice can substitute for apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup works beautifully in place of honey.

Serving Suggestions

This winter salad pairs wonderfully with hearty main courses like roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or holiday turkey. For a complete meal, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more substantial. Serve alongside warm crusty bread with good butter for a simple lunch. The vibrant colors make this salad a standout on a buffet table or as a starter for formal dinners. Consider serving it on a large white platter to showcase the beautiful jewel tones of the ingredients.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I prepare this winter salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately up to 24 hours ahead. Store the washed greens, prepared fruit, cheese, and nuts in separate containers. Mix them just before serving and add the dressing at the last minute to keep everything fresh and crisp.

→ What can I substitute for pomegranate seeds?

Dried cranberries make an excellent substitute for pomegranate seeds, as mentioned in the ingredients list. Other good alternatives include fresh raspberries, dried cherries, or even diced apple for a different but complementary flavor profile.

→ How do I make candied pecans at home?

To make candied pecans, toss 1 cup of pecan halves with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and golden. Cool completely before adding to your salad.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! Goat cheese provides a similar tangy flavor with a creamier texture. Blue cheese adds a more assertive flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements. For a milder option, try fresh mozzarella pearls or even shaved parmesan.

→ What main dishes pair well with this winter salad?

This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with roasted poultry like turkey or chicken, baked ham, or grilled salmon. It also complements hearty winter pasta dishes, risotto, or a warming soup for a complete meal. The bright flavors provide perfect balance to richer holiday main courses.

→ How long will leftover salad keep in the refrigerator?

Once dressed, this salad is best consumed immediately as the greens will wilt over time. If you have leftovers, they can be stored refrigerated for up to 24 hours, though the texture will not be as crisp. For best results, store undressed salad components separately.