Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is a vibrant and festive dish that brings together fresh greens, juicy pomegranate arils, and creamy avocado. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it stands out with its crunchy candied nuts and a sweet yet tangy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a big feast or looking for a delightful side dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad:
• For the Dressing:
• How to Make Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
• Step 1: Prepare the Candied Nuts
• Step 2: Assemble the Salad
• Step 3: Make the Dressing
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
• Individual Portions
• Family Style
• Pair with Grilled Proteins
• Garnish with Citrus
• Include Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
• Best Side Dishes for Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
• Reheating Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing ahead of time?
• What fruits can I use in this Christmas Salad?
• Is it possible to customize the cheese in my Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing?
• What can I substitute for nuts in this recipe?
• How do I store leftover Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of sweet fruits, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts creates a delicious taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this salad comes together in just 35 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap fruits or nuts based on your preferences and what’s in season.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Many components can be prepared in advance, making it easy to serve during busy holiday times.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with healthy fats from avocados and nuts, plus vitamins from fresh greens.

Tools and Preparation

To create this stunning Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Glass jar (for dressing)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all salad ingredients easily.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting the candied nuts evenly without them sticking.
• Glass jar: Great for shaking up the dressing ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1½ cups raw walnuts
• ½ cup shelled pumpkin seeds
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
• ¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 6 cups mixed greens
• 2 cups frisée lettuce
• 1-2 apples or pears, chopped
• 2 avocados, sliced
• 2 cups pomegranate arils
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fig preserves
• 2 teaspoons orange zest + 2 tablespoons orange juice
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chili flakes, to taste

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How to Make Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Candied Nuts

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the walnuts and pumpkin seeds with honey (or maple syrup), chipotle chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Stir once halfway through until the nuts are golden and toasted. Remove from the oven and spread the nuts in a single layer. Sprinkle with flaky salt and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens and frisée. Top with chopped apples (or pears), sliced avocado, pomegranate arils, and crumbled cheese. Finally, sprinkle the cooled candied nuts over the salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a glass jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), Dijon mustard, honey, fig preserves, orange zest, and orange juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper as well as chili flakes to taste. Shake well until the dressing is emulsified.

Step 4: Serve

Just before serving, drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the salad. Gently toss to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

This vibrant Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your holiday meal.

Individual Portions

• Serve in small bowls or jars for an elegant presentation, making it easy for guests to enjoy their own servings.

Family Style

• Place the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This promotes sharing and conversation during your festive gathering.

Pair with Grilled Proteins

• This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon, adding a heartiness that makes it suitable as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

Garnish with Citrus

• Add fresh orange or grapefruit segments on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. This enhances the salad’s appeal and complements the honey mustard dressing.

Include Fresh Herbs

• Top with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a fragrant touch that brightens the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

To ensure your Christmas Salad is perfect, follow these simple tips that will enhance both taste and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh greens and ripe fruits to make your salad vibrant and flavorful.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the sweetness of your honey mustard dressing according to your taste preference; you want both sweet and tangy notes.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components like candied nuts and dressing in advance. This saves time on busy holiday days while maintaining freshness.
• Mix Textures: Include a variety of textures by mixing crunchy nuts, creamy avocados, and juicy fruits. This creates an exciting eating experience.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, dress the salad just before serving. This keeps greens crisp and prevents sogginess.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for distinct flavors that can change the salad’s character dramatically.

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Best Side Dishes for Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

This Christmas Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, these sprouts add a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the salad’s ingredients.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side that balances out the refreshing elements of the salad.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey enhance the sweetness found in the salad’s dressing while adding vibrant color to your plate.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring umami flavors that pair well with the lightness of your Christmas Salad.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa dish loaded with herbs adds protein and rounds out your meal beautifully.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and are perfect alongside salads, making them a nutritious option for any festive table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing, keep an eye out for these common mistakes to ensure perfect results.

• Skipping the Candied Nuts: Neglecting to add candied nuts can result in a lack of texture. Take the time to prepare them; they add crunch and sweetness.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can drown out the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
• Using Old Greens: Using wilted or old greens can spoil your salad. Always choose fresh, crisp greens for the best taste and presentation.
• Not Chilling Ingredients: Serving at room temperature can diminish freshness. Chill your ingredients beforehand for a refreshing salad experience.
• Ignoring Cheese Options: Sticking to one type of cheese may limit flavor. Experiment with blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese to enhance complexity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the salad fresh.

Freezing Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

• Not Recommended: It’s best not to freeze this salad as it may affect the texture of the greens and dressing.

Reheating Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently if necessary, but avoid overheating greens.
• Microwave: Use sparingly; heat on low power in short intervals to prevent wilting.
• Stovetop: Quickly toss in a pan over low heat if you need to warm up any components.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing and candied nuts in advance. Just assemble the salad right before serving.

What fruits can I use in this Christmas Salad?

You can use apples, pears, or even swap for persimmons or dried cranberries for a festive touch.

Is it possible to customize the cheese in my Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing?

Absolutely! Feel free to choose between blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese based on your preference.

What can I substitute for nuts in this recipe?

For a nut-free version, you can replace walnuts with additional pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.

How do I store leftover Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is not only vibrant but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With options for customization like different fruits and cheeses, it’s an ideal dish for holiday gatherings. Try making it your own and enjoy its delightful flavors!