Winter Salad with Citruses, Pomegranate, Feta, and Candied Pecans Recipe
Introduction
This Winter Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for chilly days. Combining crisp mixed greens with juicy citrus, tangy pomegranate, creamy feta, and crunchy candied pecans, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The honey-Dijon dressing ties it all together for a satisfying, healthy meal or side.
Ingredients
- 7 cups mixed spring greens
- 1 1/4 cups mandarin orange segments (or oranges, clementines, or tangerines)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (can substitute dried cranberries)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon shallot, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and chopped candied pecans.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced shallot, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the salad to taste, then gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately. You may have some dressing left over.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute dried cranberries for pomegranate seeds if fresh are not available.
- For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Toast the pecans lightly before candying them for extra crunch and flavor.
- Add sliced avocado or grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.
Storage
Store any leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to prevent wilting. The dressing can be refrigerated for up to one week and should be whisked again before use.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Prepare the salad components ahead of time but keep the dressing separate. Toss the salad with dressing right before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What can I use instead of candied pecans?
You can substitute candied pecans with toasted walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for a different but equally delicious crunch.
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Winter Salad with Citruses, Pomegranate, Feta, and Candied Pecans Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Winter Salad recipe is a vibrant and refreshing mix of seasonal greens, citrus fruits, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and candied pecans, all tossed in a tangy honey-Dijon apple cider vinegar dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, it combines a variety of textures and flavors that celebrate winter produce.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 7 cups mixed spring greens
- 1 1/4 cups orange segments (mandarin, oranges, clementines, or tangerines)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (or substitute dried cranberries)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced shallot
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed spring greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta cheese, and roughly chopped candied pecans. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and minced shallot until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture to taste. Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients with the dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crunchy textures.
Notes
- You can substitute pomegranate seeds with dried cranberries if fresh seeds are unavailable.
- For a nut-free option, omit the candied pecans or replace them with toasted seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- The dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use fresh and ripe oranges or tangerines for the best flavor in the salad.
- Serve immediately after tossing to maintain the crispness of the greens and nuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: winter salad, mixed greens, orange salad, pomegranate, feta cheese, candied pecans, honey mustard dressing, healthy salad, vegetarian salad
