Christmas Salad Recipe
User Reviews
5
Christmas Salad Recipe
Description
The salad base features a mix of sturdy winter greens including radicchio and frisée, providing a slightly bitter and peppery foundation. The addition of orange segments, pomegranate arils, and dried cherries introduces fresh and dried fruity notes that add both sweetness and tartness. Candied pecans contribute a crunchy and sweet texture contrast, while crumbled gorgonzola cheese brings a creamy, pungent richness that complements the fruit and greens. The accompanying honey mustard vinaigrette blends extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, orange zest, and fresh orange juice, balancing acidity, sweetness, and zestiness. This dressing enhances the salad’s flavors without overpowering the delicate greens or fruits.
Such a salad suits holiday meals or any time a festive, colorful side is desired. The mixture of textures and flavors refreshes the palate and pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a buffet. Proper preparation, such as segmenting the oranges cleanly and using fresh greens, ensures an elegant presentation and crisp mouthfeel. Adjusting fruit quantities can tailor the balance of sweet and tangy according to personal taste.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens I like to use a winter mix with radicchio
- 2 cups frisée or substitute with arugula for a peppery kick, salad
- 1-2 orange peeled and cut into segments
- 2 cups pecans candied
- 1 cup pomegranate arils
- 1 cup dried cherry or dried cranberry
- 1 cup gorgonzola cheese or substitute with blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese, crumbled
Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons orange juice fresh
- salt to taste, kosher salt and freshly cracked
- black pepper to taste, kosher salt and freshly cracked
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: Combine the mixed greens and Frisée (or arugula) in a large serving bowl. Toss lightly to distribute the greens evenly.
- Add fruit and cheese: Top the greens with orange segments, pomegranate arils, and dried cherries or cranberries. Sprinkle the crumbled gorgonzola over the top.
- Add the crunch: Scatter the candied pecans over the salad for a sweet and crunchy element.
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, orange zest, and orange juice—season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Dress the salad: Just before serving, drizzle the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to coat the ingredients without crushing them.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful, and beautiful Christmas salad!
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality greens and rinse and dry them well to avoid excess moisture.
- Segment oranges carefully to remove pith and membrane for a sweeter, cleaner taste and presentation.
- Adjust the amounts of candied pecans, pomegranate arils, and dried cherries to balance sweetness and tang to your liking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6-8 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 550 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 550kcal | 28% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 15% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 39g | 60% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7g | 41% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 23g | 115% |
| Cholesterol | 14mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 405mg | 17% |
| Potassium | 316mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Sugar | 33g | 66% |
| Vitamin A | 2333IU | 47% |
| Vitamin C | 31mg | 34% |
| Calcium | 181mg | 18% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
