This festive Christmas Salad is a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant, and indulgent flavors. It combines:

• Mixed greens and frisée lettuce for a crisp and colorful base.
• Juicy pomegranate arils, creamy avocado, and your choice of blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese for depth and richness.
• Crunchy, sweet-and-spicy candied nuts to elevate the flavor and texture.

Topped with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing, this salad is not only visually stunning but also bursting with holiday flavors.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday-worthy appearance: Vibrant reds, greens, and golds make it ideal for festive gatherings.
• Perfect balance: Sweet fruit, creamy cheese, crunchy nuts, and tangy dressing create an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile and customizable: Easy substitutions make this salad adaptable for any dietary preference.

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Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large salad bowl: For mixing and serving.
• Baking sheet with parchment paper: Ensures easy cleanup while preparing candied nuts.
• Glass jar with lid: Ideal for shaking and emulsifying the dressing.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping fruits and slicing avocado.

Preparation Tips

• Prepare ingredients in advance for a seamless assembly.
• Toss fruits like apples or pears with lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Cool the candied nuts completely before adding them to the salad to maintain their crunch.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1½ cups raw walnuts
• ½ cup shelled pumpkin seeds
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
• ¼ tsp 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 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fig preserves
• 2 tsp orange zest + 2 tbsp orange juice
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chili flakes, to taste

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Candied Nuts

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, toss 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, stirring once halfway through.
• Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky salt. Let cool completely.

2. Assemble the Salad

• In a large salad bowl, layer the mixed greens and frisée lettuce.
• Add the chopped apples (or pears), sliced avocado, and pomegranate arils.
• Sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the salad.
• Finally, scatter the cooled candied nuts on top for crunch and flavor.

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.
• Add kosher salt, black pepper, and chili flakes to taste.
• Seal the jar and shake vigorously until the dressing is fully emulsified.

4. Serve

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

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Notes

• Cheese Options: Use blue cheese for a bold flavor, feta for saltiness, or goat cheese for a creamy touch.
• Make-Ahead Tips: The dressing, candied nuts, and salad components can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving.
• Nut-Free Variation: Substitute walnuts with additional pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
• Seasonal Twists: Swap apples or pears with persimmons or dried cranberries for a festive variation.

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Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

Serving Suggestions

This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many holiday favorites. Whether as a starter or a side, it complements a variety of mains with its balance of sweetness, tanginess, and crunch.

• Serve as a starter: Set the tone for your holiday meal with this vibrant and festive salad.
• Pair with mains: Perfect alongside roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or a vegetarian main like stuffed acorn squash.
• Stand-alone option: Add some grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

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Common Mistakes & Recipe Perfection Tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can make the greens soggy. Drizzle lightly and toss gently.
• Not cooling the candied nuts: Adding warm nuts can wilt the greens and ruin the salad’s texture.
• Skipping the layering: A thoughtfully layered salad is not only more visually appealing but also easier to toss and serve.

Tips to Perfect the Recipe

• Double the candied nuts: These are so good you might want extras for snacking or as a topping for other dishes.
• Add dressing gradually: Serve the remaining dressing on the side for those who want more.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Choose ripe avocados, crisp greens, and fresh pomegranate arils for the best flavor.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Elevate your holiday meal by pairing this Christmas Salad with any of the following side dishes:

1. Rosemary Roasted Potatoes

• Crispy and aromatic, these potatoes complement the salad’s fresh and tangy flavors.

1. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

• A sweet and tart sauce that echoes the citrus notes in the honey mustard dressing.

1. Herb-Infused Wild Rice Pilaf

• Earthy and nutty, this side dish adds texture and depth to your holiday table.

1. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

• The warmth and creaminess of this soup contrast beautifully with the crisp salad.

1. Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls

• Soft and buttery rolls provide a perfect counterpart to the salad’s crunch.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

• The caramelized sprouts and smoky bacon add richness and complexity to the meal.

1. Stuffed Mushrooms

• Filled with creamy cheese and herbs, these are a delightful appetizer or side.

1. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Rich, creamy, and indulgent, these potatoes balance the freshness of the salad.

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Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

Recipe Tips

Customization Ideas

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with blue cheese for bold flavor, feta for a salty kick, or goat cheese for a creamy touch.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or sesame seeds to accommodate allergies.
• Fruit Swaps: Try persimmons, dried cranberries, or citrus slices for a seasonal twist.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ingredients: Crisp greens, ripe avocados, and juicy pomegranate arils make all the difference.
• Layer thoughtfully: For an elegant presentation, arrange the ingredients in layers instead of tossing everything at once.
• Chill the dressing: Let the dressing sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving to enhance its flavors.

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Storage Instructions

• Undressed Salad: Store the salad base in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
• Candied Nuts: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Dressing: Refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. Shake well before use.

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Reheating Instructions

This salad is best served fresh and does not require reheating. If serving leftovers:

• Allow the dressing to come to room temperature for even distribution.
• Gently toss with fresh greens and avocado slices to refresh the salad.

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FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all components (candied nuts, dressing, and salad base) separately in advance. Combine and dress just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

What can I use instead of honey in the recipe?

For a vegan alternative, swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar without compromising sweetness.

How can I keep the avocado from browning?

Brush avocado slices with lemon or lime juice to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check product labels (e.g., mustard and cheese) to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources.

Can I serve this salad without cheese?

Absolutely. The salad is still delicious without cheese or with a plant-based cheese substitute for a vegan option.

What fruits can I substitute for apples or pears?

Persimmons, mandarin slices, or dried cranberries work wonderfully as seasonal substitutes.

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Conclusion

This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is more than a dish—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that bring people together. The vibrant greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese create a perfect harmony, while the sweet and tangy dressing ties everything together. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or attending a festive potluck, this salad is sure to impress.

Make it a part of your holiday tradition, and enjoy the compliments that come with serving this unforgettable dish!