Cozy up with a bowl of happiness as we embrace the winter season with a delightful Winter Salad. Picture this: a vibrant mix of tender spring greens, plump, juicy oranges bursting with life, and jewel-like pomegranate seeds that sprinkle a pop of color like little holiday decorations. The creamy crumbles of feta cheese bring a rich, savory depth, while the candied pecans offer a sweet crunch that dances on your palate. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, evoking warm, nostalgic feelings of gathering around the table with loved ones during chilly evenings.
This tasty recipe is perfect for those seeking a light and refreshing salad that doubles as a festive side dish or a delightful main course for easy weeknight dinners. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with bright, fresh flavors and festive colors for the holidays.
- A no-cook, hassle-free salad that’s ready in just 10 minutes.
- A perfect crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress at gatherings.
- Family-friendly and customizable for picky eaters.
- A healthy option packed with nutrients and deliciousness.
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients
To make this irresistible Winter Salad, you’ll need:
- 6 cups spring greens (like baby spinach or mixed greens)
- 2 juicy oranges, segmented
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Winter Salad
Let’s Make It Together
- In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, segmented oranges, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and candied pecans, allowing the colors to mix beautifully.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create a smooth, glossy dressing that sings of sweetness and tang.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, letting it cascade down like a warm hug, and toss gently to combine all the mouthwatering ingredients.
- Serve immediately and savor the festive flavors that dance on your tongue!
Delicious Variations to Try
Variations & Creative Twists
While this Winter Salad is fabulous as-is, here are some fun ways to customize it:
- For a zesty kick, add a handful of sliced radishes or sprinkle in some sliced jalapeños.
- Swap the candied pecans for sweet maple-glazed walnuts for a richer flavor experience.
- Make it indulgent by adding slices of grilled chicken or turkey bacon for an extra protein boost.
- Add in some thinly sliced red onion or fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Tips for Perfect Results
- Make Ahead: You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the oranges with seasonal fruits like grapefruit or apples for a different flavor profile.
- Easy Slicing: To segment oranges easily, cut off the top and bottom, then carefully slice along the sides to remove the peel and pith.
- Storage Suggestions: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but note that the greens will wilt a bit over time.
Nutrition Information per Serving
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 10g
- Fat: 19g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader FAQs About Winter Salad
- Can I make this ahead? Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance, just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in seasonal fruits or different nuts as you please!
- How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but consume quickly for the best taste.
- How long does it last? Enjoy it within 2-3 days at the most for optimal freshness.
Wrapping It Up
As the winter days grow short and the nights linger a little longer, warming your home with delicious scents and flavors becomes essential. This Winter Salad is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on your plate that invites laughter and joy into every gathering. It’s light, festive, and bursting with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table or an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to please.
Save this Winter Salad to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Embrace the warmth and deliciousness, and let’s enjoy the simple pleasures of life together!
Winter Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups spring greens (like baby spinach or mixed greens)
- 2 pieces juicy oranges, segmented
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, segmented oranges, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and candied pecans.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately.
