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A festive and refreshing salad that brings brightness to winter meals, combining crisp fruits, crunchy nuts, and a tangy balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
- Salad Components:
- 4 cups salad greens (spring mix or baby spinach)
- 1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady), thinly sliced
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Salad Preparation:
- Thoroughly wash and dry greens. Arrange greens in a large serving bowl. Add sliced apple, mandarin segments, and pomegranate seeds. Sprinkle with toasted nuts and feta cheese.
- Dressing Creation:
- Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Whisk or shake in a jar until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
- Final Assembly:
- Drizzle dressing just before serving. Toss gently to coat ingredients. Garnish with additional seeds or nuts if desired.
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Variations
- Flavor Alternatives:
- Substitute kale or arugula for different texture.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Incorporate roasted butternut squash.
- Experiment with different nuts or cheeses.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course Pairings:
- Holiday Glazed Ham
- Prime Rib Roast
- Roasted Turkey
- Serve with garlic bread or lentil soup.
Storage Guidelines
- Store undressed salad in an airtight container.
- Keep dressing in a separate jar.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 days.
- Shake dressing before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Fruit Substitutions: Use pears, blood oranges, or persimmons. Seasonal variations welcome.
- Dietary Adaptations: Vegan option: Omit feta or use plant-based cheese. Gluten-free by default.
- Dressing Options: Homemade preferred for freshest flavor. Store-bought works in a pinch.
A versatile salad that brings color, nutrition, and festive cheer to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Prepare ingredients separately and dress just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
- → What if I don't like walnuts?
- Swap walnuts with pecans, almonds, or skip nuts entirely.
- → How do I seed a pomegranate easily?
- Cut the pomegranate in half and tap the back with a spoon to release seeds.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Try goat cheese or blue cheese if you're not a fan of feta.
- → How long will this salad keep?
- Store undressed salad in the fridge for 2-3 days. Keep dressing separate.