As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves craving lighter, fresher meals that still pack a flavorful punch. What better way to get your festive fix than with a delicious and refreshing Christmas salad? From sweet and tangy cranberry-based creations to savory roasted vegetable medleys, we’ve rounded up 20 show-stopping salads that are sure to become new holiday traditions.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or just looking for a quick and easy lunch option, these festive salads have got you covered. With ingredients like pomegranate seeds, butternut squash, and crumbled goat cheese, these recipes offer the perfect blend of flavors and textures to satisfy your holiday cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and add some festive flair to your table with these 20 mouthwatering Christmas salad recipes!
Cranberry Walnut Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of walnuts and the earthiness of spinach, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the spinach and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the cranberries and walnuts over the salad.
5. Top with feta cheese, if using.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
A vibrant fall salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
3. Toss the squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once the squash is roasted, add it to the bowl with the kale. Toss to combine.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped nuts (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pomegranate and Feta Holiday Salad
Add a burst of festive flavor to your holiday gatherings with this elegant and refreshing salad. The tangy sweetness of pomegranate pairs perfectly with the salty richness of feta, all wrapped up in a crunchy mix of greens and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese, pomegranate seeds, walnuts, and cranberries.
2. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional pomegranate seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted vegetables, this salad combines the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of apples and a hint of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 1 large apple, diced (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled blue cheese or chopped walnuts for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted Brussels sprouts, diced apple, and balsamic glaze.
5. Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting time) + assembly time
Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad
Brighten up a chilly winter’s day with this refreshing salad, featuring the vibrant flavors of citrus and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the citrus segments.
2. Add the diced avocado and sprinkle with salt to taste.
3. Top with chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and orange juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple Roasted Pear and Goat Cheese Salad
Maple Roasted Pear and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
A sweet and savory combination that’s perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well), peeled, cored, and halved
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
– 8 oz crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the pear halves to the bowl, tossing to coat with the maple mixture.
4. Roast pears in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese and chopped nuts.
6. Assemble salad by placing roasted pears on top of mixed greens, then topping with the goat cheese mixture.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Quinoa and Pomegranate Salad
This vibrant salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring nutty quinoa, sweet pomegranate seeds, and tangy feta cheese. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, feta cheese, and pomegranate seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Warm Bacon and Spinach Salad
Start your day with a delightful twist on the classic spinach salad by adding crispy bacon and a hint of warmth. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the diced bacon on it.
3. Bake the bacon for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked bacon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Pour the warm bacon mixture over the spinach mixture and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Christmas Caprese Salad with Cranberries
Christmas Caprese Salad with Cranberries Recipe
This festive twist on the classic Caprese salad adds a pop of color and flavor with fresh cranberries, perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large serving platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Scatter the cranberries over the salad, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assemble-and-refrigerate recipe!
Spiced Pecan and Pear Salad
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of spiced pecans. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss pecan halves with honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced pears, and spiced pecans.
3. Drizzle apple cider vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled blue cheese or feta, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the peppery bite of arugula, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, roasted beets, and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrot and Farro Salad
Sweet and savory, this salad combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the nutty flavor of farro, all tied together with a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 cups chopped fresh carrots (about 4 medium-sized)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Add chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the glaze.
4. Spread the carrot mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
5. Cook farro according to package instructions.
6. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked farro and roasted carrot mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Apple Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this refreshing salad that combines crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and tangy blue cheese. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 large Granny Smith apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, and chopped walnuts.
2. Crumble blue cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional walnuts or a sprinkle of blue cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Gingerbread Crouton and Kale Salad
Transform your salad game with this unique and flavorful combination of crispy gingerbread croutons, fresh kale, and tangy dressing. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms. Roll out to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into small squares and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
4. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Top kale with gingerbread croutons and drizzle with apple cider vinegar.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Mandarin Orange and Almond Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the crunch of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup mandarin orange segments
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. Arrange the mandarin orange segments on top of the greens.
3. Sprinkle the sliced almonds and crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the oranges.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 5 minutes or less.
Rosemary Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Discover the perfect blend of flavors with this refreshing Rosemary Roasted Sweet Potato Salad! A delicious combination of sweet and savory, this recipe is ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes and toss with olive oil, rosemary sprigs, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, mixed greens, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Christmas Tree Broccoli Salad
Brighten up your holiday table with this colorful and delicious broccoli salad, shaped like a Christmas tree for an added touch of whimsy. This side dish is perfect for a family gathering or office party.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and shape the salad into a Christmas tree form.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Toasted Coconut and Mango Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of mango with the nutty flavor of toasted coconut, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Spread the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced mango, olive oil, and honey. Toss to coat.
4. Add the toasted coconut to the mango mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Apple and Walnut Salad
This salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the warmth of cinnamon adding depth to the combination of crisp apples and toasted walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the apples, parsley, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Prosciutto and Fig Holiday Salad
A sweet and savory salad perfect for the holiday season, combining the elegance of prosciutto with the natural sweetness of figs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 oz prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
– 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped dried mission figs
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine arugula leaves and prosciutto slices.
2. Top with dried figs, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Get ready to ring in the holiday season with these 20 festive Christmas salad recipes! From classic combinations like Cranberry Walnut Spinach Salad and Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad, to creative twists like Maple Roasted Pear and Goat Cheese Salad and Gingerbread Crouton and Kale Salad, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a show-stopping main course, these salads are sure to add some holiday cheer to your table.
