Save to Pinterest A festive, vibrant salad featuring juicy pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, and fresh herbs, artfully arranged in a wreath shape perfect for holiday celebrations.
This salad has become a holiday staple for us and always impresses guests with its colorful presentation and bright flavors.
Ingredients
- Greens: 5 cups mixed baby greens (such as arugula, baby spinach, and baby kale), 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
- Cheese: 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fruits & Nuts: 1 cup pomegranate seeds (arils), 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts roughly chopped
- Dressing: 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish: Zest of 1 lemon (optional), Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Make dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Set aside.
- Arrange greens:
- On a large round serving platter, arrange the mixed greens and parsley in a circular wreath shape, leaving an empty space in the center.
- Add cheese:
- Sprinkle crumbled feta evenly over the greens.
- Add fruits and nuts:
- Scatter pomegranate seeds and toasted nuts over the wreath.
- Dress salad:
- Drizzle the salad evenly with the prepared dressing just before serving.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with lemon zest and fresh mint leaves if desired.
Save to Pinterest This salad brings joy to family gatherings and is always a conversation starter at the table.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, Mixing bowl, Whisk, Salad tongs
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (feta cheese), Tree nuts (pecans or walnuts). For nut allergies, omit nuts or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds. Always check cheese and dressing labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 180, Total Fat 13 g, Carbohydrates 12 g, Protein 4 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This salad is a fresh and festive addition that pairs wonderfully with your holiday feasts.
Recipe FAQs
- → What nuts can I use as an alternative to pecans?
Walnuts are a great substitute for pecans, adding a similar crunch and earthy flavor. Toasted pumpkin seeds can also be used for nut-free variation.
- → Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, arrange the greens and toppings ahead but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
- → How can I make the dressing sweeter?
Adjust the honey quantity or add a small splash of maple syrup to enhance the sweetness while balancing the tanginess of balsamic vinegar.
- → Is there a dairy-free alternative for feta cheese?
Consider using firm tofu seasoned with herbs or a nut-based cheese substitute to replicate the creamy texture without dairy.
- → What greens work best for this salad?
Mixed baby greens like arugula, baby spinach, and baby kale blend well with flat-leaf parsley to provide varied textures and fresh flavors.