Description

Create a vibrant Christmas Salad with crisp apples, juicy pomegranate, and toasted nuts. Perfect for holiday tables, it’s fresh, healthy, and festive!

Ingredients

Ingredients List

Core Ingredients:

Apples: Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Use 2 medium apples, thinly sliced.
Pomegranate Seeds: ½ cup of fresh seeds. If using a whole pomegranate, remove the seeds carefully to avoid juice spillage.
Mixed Greens: 4 cups of fresh greens such as spinach, arugula, or a spring mix. These provide a refreshing base and pair beautifully with the other ingredients.
Nuts: ½ cup of walnuts or pecans, toasted for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
Dried Cranberries: ¼ cup for a hint of sweetness and added texture.
Feta Cheese (optional): ½ cup, crumbled, to add a creamy, tangy element.

Dressing Ingredients:

Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons for a smooth and rich dressing base.
Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons for a tangy kick that complements the fruit.
Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon for a natural sweetness that balances the acidity.
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon for a touch of sharpness and emulsification.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dressing perfectly.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pomegranate Seeds

If using a whole pomegranate, cut it in half and gently tap the back with a wooden spoon over a bowl to release the seeds. Remove any white pith for a clean presentation.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts

Place the walnuts or pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Wash and Prepare the Greens

Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water. This step ensures the greens stay crisp and fresh.

Step 4: Slice the Apples

Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the apples into even pieces. Toss them in a small amount of lemon juice to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, toasted nuts, and dried cranberries. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the top. Use tongs to toss the salad gently, ensuring the dressing coats all ingredients.

Step 7: Add Optional Garnishes

If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad just before serving. You can also add additional toppings like sunflower seeds or thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

Tips for Success

Choose the Freshest Ingredients
- Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith ensure the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Use fresh pomegranate seeds whenever possible; their juiciness elevates the salad’s overall texture.
Toast the Nuts Properly
- Toasting nuts intensifies their flavor and adds a deeper crunch. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the nuts, and stir until fragrant. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Balance the Dressing
- The dressing is a key element. Whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard thoroughly for a smooth, emulsified texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning to ensure a balanced mix of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
Prevent Apples from Browning
- Toss sliced apples in a small amount of lemon juice or a vinegar-water solution to keep them fresh and visually appealing.
Layer Thoughtfully
- Place the greens at the base, followed by the apples, pomegranate seeds, and nuts. This layering ensures the toppings are evenly distributed and visually stunning.
Add Dressing Just Before Serving
- To maintain the crispness of the greens, dress the salad only moments before serving. Toss gently to coat the ingredients without wilting them.