Imagine a salad so festive and delicious that it becomes the unexpected star of your holiday table. This Christmas Salad with Warm Cranberry Dressing is not just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. Packed with vibrant mixed greens, bursting cranberries, and toasted pecans, this recipe will transform your ordinary salad into a show-stopping holiday masterpiece that will have your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the mixed greens under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Set aside in a large salad bowl.
- In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries and sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the cranberries begin to burst and the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Add the apple cider vinegar to the warm cranberry mixture, stirring well to combine. This will create a tangy dressing that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
- While the dressing is cooling slightly, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 3-4 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
- Drizzle the olive oil into the cranberry dressing, whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the warm cranberry dressing over the mixed greens in the salad bowl, tossing gently to coat the greens evenly.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans on top of the salad for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve the salad immediately while the dressing is warm, garnishing with a few extra cranberries if desired.
Tips
- • For the freshest taste, use mixed greens that are crisp and vibrant. Avoid wilted or soggy leaves. • Toast the pecans carefully – they can burn quickly, so keep a close eye and stir frequently. • Make the cranberry dressing just before serving to maintain its warm, inviting temperature. • If you want to prep ahead, you can toast the pecans and wash the greens in advance, but dress the salad just before serving. • For an extra festive touch, consider adding some pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of goat cheese. • Use fresh, high-quality apple cider vinegar for the best flavor in your dressing. • If you prefer a smoother dressing, you can briefly blend the cranberry mixture before adding the olive oil.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
