Save A festive, vibrant salad featuring chopped green vegetables, bright pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts perfect for holiday gatherings.
This salad always brings a joyful mood to our holiday table and receives compliments every year
Ingredients
- Greens: 2 cups kale leaves, finely chopped (stems removed), 1 cup baby spinach, chopped, 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped, 1 cup cucumber, diced
- Vegetables & Fruit: 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced, 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds, 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- Cheese & Nuts: 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled, 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
- Dressing: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine kale, spinach, broccoli, and cucumber.
- Step 2:
- Massage the kale gently with a drizzle of olive oil for 12 minutes to soften.
- Step 3:
- Add red bell pepper, pomegranate seeds, and red onion to the greens and toss gently.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 6:
- Top with crumbled feta and toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Step 7:
- Transfer to a serving platter. For a festive touch, shape the salad into a Christmas tree and decorate with extra pomegranate seeds and feta.
Save Our family loves gathering around this salad during the holidays and sharing stories while enjoying its fresh flavors
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs perfectly with crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc and a warm baguette
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within two days for optimal freshness
Variations
Add avocado slices for extra creaminess or swap nuts as desired for texture changes
Save This chopped Christmas Tree Salad is a festive addition to any holiday table and sure to impress your guests
Recipe Help
- → What greens are used in this salad?
It features kale, baby spinach, broccoli florets, and diced cucumber for a fresh, crisp base.
- → How is the dressing prepared?
The dressing combines extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper whisked until smooth.
- → Can nuts be substituted safely?
Yes, pecans or walnuts can be replaced with pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative.
- → Is there a vegan option for the topping?
You can omit feta or use plant-based cheese to keep it vegan friendly.
- → How do the pomegranate seeds affect the salad?
Pomegranate seeds add a bright, juicy sweetness that complements the savory greens and nuts.
- → What is the best way to serve this salad?
Chill before serving and shape into a festive tree on a platter for a seasonal presentation.