Pin A festive, vibrant salad featuring chopped green vegetables, bright pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts perfect for holiday gatherings.
This salad is my go-to holiday dish because it always impresses guests and brings a refreshing balance to the meal.
Ingredients
- Greens: 2 cups kale leaves, finely chopped (stems removed), 1 cup baby spinach, chopped, 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped, 1 cup cucumber, diced
- Vegetables & Fruit: 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced, 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds, 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- Cheese & Nuts: 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled, 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
- Dressing: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine kale, spinach, broccoli, and cucumber.
- Step 2:
- Massage the kale gently with a drizzle of olive oil for 1–2 minutes to soften.
- Step 3:
- Add red bell pepper, pomegranate seeds, and red onion to the greens and toss gently.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 6:
- Top with crumbled feta and toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Step 7:
- Transfer to a serving platter. For a festive touch, shape the salad into a Christmas tree and decorate with extra pomegranate seeds and feta.
Pin This salad has become a family tradition, bringing everyone together around the holidays with its bright colors and fresh flavors.
Pairings
Pairs well with crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling water with lemon.
Storage Tips
Store the salad ingredients separately and toss before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Variations
Add avocado slices for extra creaminess or swap feta with goat cheese for a tangier taste.
Pin Enjoy this festive and healthy salad as a centerpiece to your holiday table for a burst of color and flavor.
Recipe Q&A
- → How can I soften the kale for this salad?
Gently massage the chopped kale with a little olive oil for 1–2 minutes to soften its texture and reduce bitterness.
- → What nuts work best for added crunch?
Toasted pecans or walnuts provide a rich, crunchy contrast, but pumpkin seeds can be used for a nut-free alternative.
- → How is the dressing prepared for this salad?
Whisk together extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- → Can this salad be adapted for vegan diets?
Yes, by omitting feta or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative, the salad suits vegan preferences.
- → What makes this salad festive for holiday gatherings?
The salad is shaped like a Christmas tree and decorated with extra pomegranate seeds and feta, creating a vibrant and decorative centerpiece.
- → What are good beverage pairings with this salad?
Crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complement the fresh and tangy flavors beautifully.
