The holiday season is filled with joy, warmth, and wonderful gatherings of family and friends. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Christmas is the Pear, Apple & Cranberry Christmas Salad with Feta Snowflakes. Packed with vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch, this salad is not only visually stunning but incredibly easy to prepare as well. The combination of juicy pears, crisp apples, tangy cranberries, and salty feta makes each bite a festive celebration. This recipe shines brightly at any holiday table, infusing a burst of color and a myriad of appetizing flavors into your holiday feast.

What makes this salad even more appealing is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that seems far more extravagant than the effort truly required. No need for elaborate cooking or extensive preparation – in just ten minutes, you’ll have a delicious salad that’s perfect for holiday dinners or as a refreshing side dish. The honey-cider dressing adds a wonderful zing, bringing all the ingredients together and enhancing their natural sweetness and tang. Plus, this salad is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for various dietary needs during festive gatherings.

Beyond its taste, the Pear, Apple & Cranberry Christmas Salad is also a healthful choice. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this salad not only looks good but also does good for your body. So, whether you’re hosting a festive event or looking for a colorful dish to brighten up your weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a holiday favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Pear, Apple & Cranberry Christmas Salad

This salad is colorful and visually appealing, enhancing your festive table.
Combines sweet and tart flavors, providing a balanced taste experience.
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal last-minute dish.
Healthy ingredients mean you can indulge without the guilt.
Versatile enough to be served as a side or a main dish for any meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the preparation of your Pear, Apple & Cranberry Christmas Salad, a little organization can go a long way. First, gather all the ingredients and ensure your work area is clean and clutter-free. The tools you will need include a large serving bowl, a sharp knife for slicing the fruit, and a small mixing bowl for whisking the dressing ingredients together.

Having a cutting board handy will make cutting your fruits easier and more efficient. Consider using a whisk for a smooth dressing. If you have it on hand, a salad spinner can help wash your salad greens thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris. Finally, a serving spoon will be helpful when tossing the salad and when plating it for your guests. By ensuring you’re well-prepared, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time!

Ingredients

5 cups mixed salad greens (spring mix, spinach, or arugula)
1 medium pear, thinly sliced
1 medium apple, thinly sliced
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (“feta snowflakes”)
1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish

Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by placing the mixed salad greens in a large serving bowl or platter. This will act as the bed for your salad, offering valuable nutrients and a flexible base for adding the other components.

Step 2: Add the Fruits

Carefully arrange the sliced pear and apple evenly over the greens. When placing the fruits, consider their colors and shapes; a well-arranged salad looks more inviting. The sweetness of the pear and the crispness of the apple work harmoniously, showcasing a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.

Step 3: Top with Cranberries and Nuts

Next, sprinkle the dried cranberries and your choice of toasted pecans or walnuts on top. These ingredients not only add flavor but also introduce a delicious crunch to the mix. Cranberries offer a tangy note, perfectly balanced by the richness of the nuts.

Step 4: Create the Feta Snowflakes

Now it’s time to add the crumble feta cheese. Instead of simply dumping it over the salad, scatter the feta in such a way that it resembles delicate snowflakes atop your festive creation. This enhances the presentation and makes the dish even more appealing for your guests.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Ensuring the dressing is emulsified will help it cling better to the salad components, maximizing flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. This is critical as adding it too early may cause the leaves to wilt. Toss the salad lightly to coat all the ingredients in the dressing, but do this gently to maintain the salads’ texture. Serve immediately to preserve the freshness and crispness of the salad.

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken, diced turkey, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Vegetables: Toss in some sliced cucumber, grated carrots, or roasted red peppers for added color and texture.
Spices: Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg in your dressing to add a seasonal flair.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your fruits are ripe but firm for the best texture.
The salad can be made a few hours ahead; just add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with a holiday main course like honey-glazed ham or roasted turkey.
It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to cheese boards or festive appetizers.

Tips

Use a mix of greens for added flavor and color—try arugula for a peppery kick!
For an enhanced flavor experience, marinate the sliced apples in lemon juice to keep them fresh and prevent browning.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: N/A
Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad without the dressing a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and add the dressing right before serving.

What type of apples work best for this salad?

Crisp, sweet-tart apples such as Honeycrisp or Gala are great options that complement the feta and cranberries well.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing enhances the flavor, you can use store-bought if you’re short on time.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free, making it a suitable option for a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

The Pear, Apple & Cranberry Christmas Salad with Feta Snowflakes is a delightful addition to any holiday spread, merging seasonal flavors with healthful ingredients that everyone will love. Its quick preparation makes it a go-to recipe when you are pressed for time but still want to create something special. This festive salad is versatile, brightening up any table and providing a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes. Embrace the holiday spirit with this recipe by sharing it with family and friends, and invite them to explore their own variations or adaptations. Try this recipe and watch it become a beloved part of your holiday traditions!