Oh, I just love Christmas salads! There’s something so festive about a vibrant, colorful salad that brings life to any holiday table. They’re not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of fresh flavors and textures that everyone can enjoy. This Christmas salad is my go-to for gatherings—it’s bright, refreshing, and oh-so-easy to make. Imagine the crunch of fresh mixed greens, the sweetness of juicy cherry tomatoes, and the tang of feta cheese all tossed together with a delightful balsamic vinaigrette. Trust me, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday feast, and it’ll leave your guests feeling merry and bright!

Ingredients List

4 cups mixed greens: A blend of your favorite greens like arugula, spinach, or romaine adds a fresh base to the salad.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These little bursts of sweetness provide a pop of color and flavor.
1 cup cucumber, diced: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers add a nice crunch that balances the other ingredients.
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced: For a bit of zing, the red onion brings a lovely sharpness without overpowering the salad.
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: This salty, creamy cheese adds depth and richness. You can skip it for a vegan version!
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: They give a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
1/4 cup dried cranberries: These little gems add sweetness and a lovely chewy texture, perfect for the holidays.
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette: A tangy dressing that ties everything together, enhancing the flavors of the salad.

How to Prepare Christmas Salads

Getting this Christmas salad ready is as easy as pie—no cooking involved! Just follow these simple steps to create a colorful, festive dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Greens

First things first, you’ll want to wash and dry your mixed greens. I like to fill a large bowl with cold water, swish the greens around, and then gently lift them out. This way, any dirt or grit gets left behind. Dry them using a salad spinner or pat them down with a clean kitchen towel. Trust me, this makes for a crispier salad!

Step 2: Combine Vegetables

Now, grab a large bowl and toss in those beautiful mixed greens. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. I usually like to add the tomatoes last so they sit on top and don’t get squished. This layering keeps everything looking fresh and vibrant!

Step 3: Add Toppings

Time to sprinkle in the feta cheese, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries! The feta brings that creamy, salty goodness, while the walnuts offer a delightful crunch. And those cranberries? They add a sweet, chewy surprise that balances the flavors perfectly. Go ahead, toss everything gently to incorporate those toppings without losing their shape.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Now for the fun part—drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Start with a little; you can always add more later! Toss everything gently to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This is key to bringing out those delicious flavors in every bite!

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Finally, serve your gorgeous salad right away for the best crunch and freshness. It’s a perfect side for any holiday meal or even on its own for a light lunch. Enjoy the vibrant colors and festive flavors as you gather with friends and family—this salad is a true celebration on a plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: I mean, who doesn’t love a salad that comes together in just 15 minutes? Perfect for those busy holiday prep days!
Healthful and Fresh: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is a guilt-free addition to your festive spread.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant mix of greens, reds, and whites not only looks stunning on your table but also makes it feel like a special occasion.
Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Want to go nut-free? Just skip the walnuts!
Family-Friendly: With familiar flavors and textures, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Everyone loves a little crunch and sweetness!
Perfect for Gatherings: This salad adds a festive touch to any holiday meal, and it’s a great way to balance out heavier dishes.

Tips for Success

Getting this Christmas salad just right is all about a few simple tricks! Here are my top tips to ensure you create a delicious and beautiful dish every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh greens and ripe produce make all the difference in flavor. Always check for crispness and avoid any wilted or browning leaves.
Don’t Over-Dress: Start with a small amount of balsamic vinaigrette. You can always add more if needed! Over-dressing can make your salad soggy, and nobody wants that.
Chill Your Ingredients: If you have time, chill your salad bowl and ingredients before mixing. A cool salad is especially refreshing, especially during the holiday season!
Toss Gently: When combining the salad, use a light hand to toss. You want everything mixed without crushing the delicate ingredients, especially the feta and cranberries.
Prep Ahead: You can wash and chop your ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain that fresh crunch!
Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Add slices of avocado, roasted beets, or even some sliced apples for a delightful twist. The holidays are all about festive flavors!

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to impress your guests with a stunning and scrumptious Christmas salad that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Nutritional Information

This Christmas salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious addition to your holiday table! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, keeping in mind these are estimates:

Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 120mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 5g

With a well-rounded mix of nutrients, this salad is a guilt-free way to enjoy the flavors of the season while keeping your health in check. So, dig in and savor the goodness!

FAQ Section

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! To make this Christmas salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese. You can also substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or just add extra nuts for that creamy texture. Trust me, it’ll still be delicious and festive!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s so good!), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Try to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again. This way, the greens stay crisp, and the flavors remain vibrant!

What can I substitute for balsamic vinaigrette?

If you want to switch things up, feel free to use other dressings like a honey mustard vinaigrette or a simple lemon olive oil dressing. Both will add a wonderful zing and complement the ingredients beautifully!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Christmas salad properly ensures you can enjoy those vibrant flavors even after the holiday feast! If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

Airtight Container: Transfer the salad to an airtight container. This helps prevent sogginess and keeps the greens crisp.
Keep Dressing Separate: If possible, store the balsamic vinaigrette in a separate small container. This way, you can drizzle it on just before serving for maximum freshness!
Refrigeration: Your salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more the greens may wilt, so try to enjoy it sooner rather than later!

As for reheating, there’s no need for that with salads! Just give it a gentle toss and add some fresh dressing if needed when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Trust me, serving it cold is the way to go for that crunchy, refreshing bite!

Christmas Salads: 5 Festive Recipes to Brighten Your Table

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and colorful Christmas salad perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions

Wash and dry the mixed greens.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Add the feta cheese, walnuts, and dried cranberries.
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Use seasonal vegetables for added flavor.
To make it vegan, omit the feta cheese.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 180
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Christmas salads

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