Festive Christmas Salad with Pomegranate and Pear

When it comes to Christmas dinner, salads might not be the first dish that comes to mind. However, this vibrant Festive Christmas Salad is here to change that. Bursting with seasonal flavors and colorful ingredients, this dish is as festive as it is nutritious. With just the right balance of sweetness and crunch, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you can focus on enjoying the season rather than stressing in the kitchen.

A Symphony of Seasonal Ingredients

This Christmas Salad is a celebration of the season’s finest produce. Mixed greens form a crisp and nutritious base, while mandarin oranges and pomegranate seeds add a burst of juicy sweetness. Thinly sliced pear brings a delicate flavor and buttery texture, perfectly complemented by the creamy tang of crumbled feta cheese. Chopped walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy fats, while red onion slices lend a subtle sharpness that ties everything together. The vibrant colors of the oranges, pomegranate seeds, and greens make this salad a visual treat, sure to stand out on any holiday table.

Not only is this salad delicious, but it also offers a range of health benefits. The mixed greens provide a dose of fiber and essential vitamins, while walnuts contribute heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Pomegranate seeds are rich in antioxidants, and the citrus from the mandarin oranges is a great source of vitamin C.

With just 127 calories per serving, this salad is a lighter option that allows you to indulge in other holiday treats guilt-free. On Nutrisystem, it counts as half of a SmartCarb, one PowerFuel and half of a Vegetable, making it a great choice for those mindful of their meal plan.

A Dressing That Delivers

The homemade dressing for this salad is simple yet packed with flavor. A blend of olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar and chopped shallots creates a tangy-sweet vinaigrette that enhances the natural flavors of the salad without overpowering them. Black pepper adds just the right amount of spice to balance the sweetness.

The best part? This dressing can be whisked together in minutes and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How to Make a Healthy Christmas Salad

Creating this Christmas Salad couldn’t be easier. Start by assembling your salad base with six cups of mixed greens. Sprinkle on the thinly sliced red onion, chopped walnuts and feta cheese crumbles.

Next, layer on the fruit: mandarin orange segments, pear slices and pomegranate seeds. When it’s time to serve, drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.

It’s that simple—yet the result is a dish that looks and tastes gourmet!

Perfect Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roast turkey, baked salmon or a hearty vegetable dish for a well-rounded meal.

For a cozy and indulgent spread, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a rich butternut squash risotto. Its fresh flavors also make it an excellent counterpoint to heavier dishes like casseroles, cheesy au gratin potatoes or stuffing. Hosting a brunch? This salad shines next to a savory quiche or a festive holiday ham.

For those looking to keep things lighter, consider pairing the salad with a soup course, such as a spiced pumpkin soup or a roasted tomato bisque.

And don’t forget to save some for leftovers; it’s just as delicious the next day! Leftover salad can be tucked into wraps or served with grilled proteins for a quick and easy meal.

Make it Your Own

One of the best things about this Christmas Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds, or use goat cheese instead of feta for a milder flavor. Add dried cranberries or raisins for an extra pop of sweetness, or sprinkle on sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.

Not a fan of pears? Try thinly sliced apples instead. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith varieties work beautifully for a crisp texture and a touch of tartness.

You can even add grilled chicken, roasted shrimp or chickpeas for extra protein, turning it into a complete meal. For a plant-based twist, consider adding avocado slices or roasted sweet potato cubes.

The dressing is equally adaptable: experiment with balsamic vinegar or orange juice for a new twist. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dressing can lend a subtle warmth, perfect for the holiday season.

Feeling adventurous? Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamier texture. The possibilities are endless, making this salad a true crowd-pleaser that you can tailor to fit any occasion.

A Festive Christmas Salad to Brighten Your Holiday Table

This Christmas Salad isn’t just a side dish—it’s a conversation starter. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a standout addition to your holiday feast. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying an intimate family dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

So why not add a little extra cheer to your Christmas table this year? Whip up this festive salad and watch it disappear—it’s the gift that keeps on giving!