Introduction

This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is a festive and vibrant dish perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining fresh greens, tart fruits, crunchy nuts, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

A brown bowl filled with a fresh salad resting on a white marbled texture. The salad has a base layer of green arugula leaves, topped with small pieces of white cheese scattered evenly. There are ruby red pomegranate seeds and chopped walnut halves sprinkled across the salad, adding bright red and light brown colors. Slices of golden yellow apple pieces are placed on top, adding a crisp texture. Everything is lightly drizzled with a shiny, dark brown dressing, giving the salad a fresh and glossy look. The warm lighting creates a cozy and inviting feel, with a blurred background showing festive decorations. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
1 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried cranberries)
1 medium apple, thinly sliced (such as Gala or Granny Smith)
½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Wash and dry the baby spinach or mixed greens thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Core and thinly slice the apple. You may leave the skin on for extra color and nutrients.
Step 3: Prepare the pomegranate seeds by carefully removing them from the fruit. For cranberries, use fresh whole berries or slice them in half if desired.
Step 4: Optional: Toast the candied pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad.
Step 5: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: In a large salad bowl, combine the greens, pomegranate seeds, cranberries, apple slices, toasted nuts, crumbled feta cheese, and red onion if using. Toss gently to mix.
Step 7: Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is evenly coated. Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing.
Step 8: Serve immediately as a colorful and refreshing side dish or starter for your holiday meal.

Tips & Variations

Try substituting maple syrup for honey for a slightly different sweetness and flavor profile.
Use dried cranberries if fresh ones are unavailable, but consider soaking them briefly in warm water to plump them up.
Adding sliced avocado or roasted beets can give the salad extra creaminess and depth.
For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Storage

Store any leftover salad components separately without dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately to maintain freshness. If needed, gently re-toss before serving. The dressing can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to a week.

How to Serve

A large round wooden bowl filled with a fresh mixed green salad placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has several layers: a base of leafy greens with different shades of green, topped with chunks of light creamy cheese, bright red pomegranate seeds scattered evenly, small pieces of brown toasted walnuts, and thin slices of creamy avocado arranged on one side. A woman's hand is holding a dark brown wooden spoon poised over the salad, ready to serve. Nearby, a small white bowl filled with walnuts and another with pomegranate seeds sit on the side. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

It’s best to prepare and toss the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent sogginess. You can prepare the dressing and other ingredients ahead of time separately.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can substitute Dijon mustard with whole grain or yellow mustard, though it will slightly change the flavor of the dressing.