Description
This Cranberry Pecan Salad is a vibrant and festive dish perfect for any occasion, combining mixed greens with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty balsamic vinaigrette. Optional add-ins like grilled chicken, avocado, and pomegranate seeds add extra flavor and texture, making it a fresh and delightful salad that is easy to prepare and full of contrasting tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple or pear, thinly sliced (optional)
Cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or your favorite dressing)
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- Grilled chicken slices (for added protein)
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, thinly sliced red onion, and the apple or pear slices if using. This creates a fresh and flavorful foundation for your salad.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese evenly over the salad mixture, adding a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries and fruit.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad gently. Toss the salad carefully to combine all ingredients without bruising the greens. Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed to avoid overdressing.
- Serve: Transfer the dressed salad to individual plates, arranging it nicely. Garnish with optional pomegranate seeds, grilled chicken slices for protein, and slices of avocado to enrich texture and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately to ensure the mixed greens remain crisp and fresh. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy elements in this festive and healthy salad.
Notes
- To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
- For added protein, grilled chicken slices provide a hearty option but can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
- Use fresh seasonal fruit like apples or pears for best flavor and crispness.
- Adjust the amount of dressing according to your taste to keep the salad light and fresh.
- Serve immediately after tossing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
