The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, amazing food. If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the festive spirit while being both visually stunning and incredibly tasty, then this Melted Brie & Cranberry Christmas Salad with Juicy Pears, Apples, and Feta Snowflakes is just what you need. This delightful salad not only serves as a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table, but it also offers a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing.

The combination of warm, melted Brie with tangy cranberries, crisp apples, and sweet pears creates a rich blend of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of Christmas. The addition of feta cheese sprinkled on top mimics delicate snowflakes, giving this salad a whimsical holiday twist. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. With every bite, you’ll experience the heartwarming and festive flavors that make this dish a must-try this holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Melted Brie & Cranberry Christmas Salad

Festive Presentation: The salad’s colorful ingredients and the way the Brie melts create a stunning visual appeal.
Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors makes each bite a celebration.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, this salad is as good for your health as it is for your culinary enjoyment.
Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish can be whipped up in no time.
Versatility: Perfect as a side dish, a light main course, or even as an appetizer for your holiday parties!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the preparation of your Melted Brie & Cranberry Christmas Salad, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all the ingredients and tools you’ll need to streamline the cooking process. You will require a cutting board and a sharp knife to slice the pear and apple, a mixing bowl for the salad greens, and a large serving platter to elegantly present your salad.

Additionally, you’ll need a parchment-lined baking sheet for melting the Brie and a small saucepan to prepare the warm dressing. Once your workspace is organized, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that the Brie melts perfectly. This initial setup will make the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

5 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix) (150 g)
1 ripe pear, thinly sliced (180 g)
1 crisp apple, thinly sliced (180 g)
1/3 cup dried cranberries (50 g)
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted (30 g)
150 g Brie cheese, sliced (5 oz)
1/3 cup feta cheese, finely crumbled (50 g)
3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
1 tablespoon honey (15 ml / 20 g)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 g)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Brie

Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key to achieving that gooey, melted perfection in your Brie. Lay the Brie slices out on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them plenty of space. Bake the Brie in the preheated oven for about 6 to 8 minutes, just until it becomes soft and slightly bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook; we want that creamy texture!

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

While the Brie is baking, it’s time to create a vibrant base for your salad. In a large serving bowl or platter, begin layering your salad greens. Arugula or baby spinach adds a peppery note, while spring mix brings a slight sweetness. Next, carefully arrange the thinly sliced pears and apples on top. These fresh fruits not only add delicious flavors but also a lovely crunch. Sprinkle the dried cranberries and toasted walnuts or pecans for added textures; the sweet and nutty flavors elevate the whole dish.

Step 3: Create the Warm Dressing

The warm dressing is what ties everything together. In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Place the pan over low heat and gently warm the mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes. Use a whisk to stir until the dressing becomes emulsified and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for your flavor preference.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time for the star of the show! Carefully remove the Brie from the oven. It should be gloriously warm and melting. Place the softened Brie on top of your beautifully assembled salad. Drizzle the warm dressing generously over the greens and fruits, ensuring even distribution. Finally, finish off with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top. This will look like delicate snowflakes glistening atop your festive salad. Serve immediately while the Brie is fabulously warm and creamy; it’s an experience not to be missed!

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken or turkey slices for a heartier meal.
Vegetables: Incorporate roasted beet slices or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
Spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the pear slices to enhance the sweetness.

Cooking Notes

For a different flavor profile, try using different varieties of cheese, such as Camembert or goat cheese.
If you prefer a more tart taste, opt for green apples instead of sweet red varieties.

Serving Suggestions

This festive salad pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as turkey or ham during the holidays.
Serve it as a light lunch with a side of crusty bread and a glass of white wine.

Tips

For the best presentation, slice the pears and apples just before serving to avoid browning.
Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator; just reheat it before drizzling over the salad.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 320
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

While the salad can be assembled ahead of time, it’s best to add the warm Brie and dressing just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for Brie cheese?

If Brie isn’t available, Camembert or goat cheese can work as excellent alternatives.

Can I use fresh herbs in this salad?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic quality that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients, especially the dressing, are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Melted Brie & Cranberry Christmas Salad with Juicy Pears, Apples, and Feta Snowflakes is not just a recipe; it’s a festive celebration on a plate. It encapsulates the richness of the holiday season, providing warmth and comfort through its delightful flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to add a special touch to your dinner table, this salad is sure to impress your guests. So go ahead, try making this dazzling dish, and watch your loved ones enjoy every delicious morsel. Don’t forget to leave a comment about your experience and any variations you might try!