Print

Winter Salad

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 54 reviews

This vibrant Winter Salad is a refreshing mix of crisp spring greens, juicy citrus segments, tart pomegranate seeds, creamy feta cheese, and sweet candied pecans, all brought together with a tangy homemade dressing. Quick to prepare and bursting with seasonal flavors, it makes an ideal festive side dish for any holiday meal or light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 7 cups mixed spring greens
  • 1 1/4 cups orange segments (mandarin, oranges, clementines, or tangerines)
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (or substitute dried cranberries)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon shallot, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed spring greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta cheese, and roughly chopped candied pecans. Gently mix to combine the components evenly without bruising the greens.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced shallot, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
  3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the homemade dressing over the salad mixture to your preferred taste. Use a gentle tossing motion to coat the salad evenly with the dressing, taking care not to crush the delicate greens and fruit segments.
  4. Serve Immediately: Once dressed, serve the salad right away to enjoy the freshness. You may have some dressing left over, which can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the candied pecans or substitute with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower.
  • To add extra protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be served alongside.
  • Use fresh pomegranate seeds when in season for best flavor; dried cranberries are a suitable alternative.
  • The dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Whisk again before using.
  • Adjust the sweetness and acidity of the dressing by increasing or decreasing honey and vinegar to your taste.