9+ Amazing Christmas Salad Recipes with Cranberries You Need to Try This Holiday Season!
As the holiday season approaches, the table becomes a canvas for delightful flavors and vibrant colors. Salads can be a refreshing addition to your festive spread, and cranberries bring a pop of tartness that complements so many dishes. Let’s explore some scrumptious salad recipes that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also brighten up your holiday gatherings!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 15 min Total Time: 15 min.
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This salad bursts with bright flavors from fresh citrus and the tangy sweetness of cranberries. The combination of juicy oranges and grapefruits with crunchy greens makes it a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes.
Mixed salad greens (like arugula and spinach)
1 large grapefruit, segmented
2 oranges, segmented
1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried, if you prefer)
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup walnuts, toasted
Honey vinaigrette dressing (honey, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper)
This salad is special because it combines the sweet and tangy notes of citrus with the crunch of walnuts and the creamy feta. The honey vinaigrette pulls everything together, creating a dressing that enhances every ingredient. It’s not just beautiful to look at; it’s also a refreshing palate cleanser between richer holiday dishes, making it a hit at any festive gathering.
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 15 min Total Time: 15 min.
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If you’re looking for something hearty yet light, this spinach salad is perfect. The earthiness of spinach pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of cranberries and the rich flavor of pecans.
8 cups fresh spinach
1 cup dried cranberries
½ cup pecans, toasted
½ cup goat cheese, crumbled
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Balsamic vinaigrette (balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of sugar)
This recipe is popular for its delightful mix of flavors and textures. The crunch of pecans and the creaminess of goat cheese create a lovely contrast that keeps every bite interesting. Plus, the balsamic vinaigrette adds a tangy touch that ties the ingredients together, making it a memorable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 15 min Total Time: 15 min.
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This kale salad is not only healthy but also packed with festive flavors. The combination of crunchy apples and tart cranberries creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for the holiday season.
1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
1 apple, diced (any sweet variety)
1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried, if preferred)
½ cup sliced almonds
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, juiced
Olive oil, salt, and pepper for dressing
This salad shines because it can be made ahead of time without losing its freshness. The lemon juice acts as a natural preservative for the kale while enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. Plus, the vibrant colors of the apples and cranberries add a festive touch to your table, making this salad a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday feast.
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Quinoa, feta cheese, honey, dijon mustard, green Total Time: 30 min.
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<pThis quinoa salad is not only colorful but also packed with protein, making it a nutritious option for your holiday spread. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs beautifully with the sweet cranberries and crunchy pistachios.
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup dried cranberries
½ cup pistachios, shelled and chopped
½ cup chopped parsley
1 lemon, juiced
Olive oil, salt, and pepper for dressing
This recipe stands out because it’s a hearty dish that feels indulgent but is still healthy. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a vibrant addition to any holiday table. Plus, quinoa is a fantastic base that absorbs the dressing well, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
