Quick Description
A vibrant and festive salad featuring a mix of fresh fruits, crisp veggies, and a delightful combination of textures. Perfect for the holiday season, this colorful dish brings both flavor and joy to your table!
Servings & Timing
- Serves: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- 1/2 cup cubed feta cheese
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup creamy dressing (Greek yogurt or your choice)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Chop the celery, halve the red and green grapes, peel and segment the orange, and cube the feta cheese. Set them aside.
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped celery, red grapes, green grapes, pomegranate seeds, and orange segments.
3. Add the Feta:
Toss in the cubed feta cheese, and sprinkle with fresh black pepper to taste.
4. Garnish & Serve:
Top the salad with fresh dill and serve with your preferred creamy dressing.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 23g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 14g
Benefits
- Festive & Nutritious: This colorful salad is not only beautiful but also packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and veggies.
- Versatile: The ingredients can be mixed and matched with other fruits and cheeses of your preference.
- Low-Calorie: Great for those watching their calorie intake, with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory.
Additional Notes
- Make it Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese.
- Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, add some toasted almonds or walnuts.
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan alternative.
Brief Introduction
This Christmas Salad is as healthy as it is festive, bringing together fresh, crisp veggies with sweet fruits, all topped off with creamy feta and a tangy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for any holiday gathering.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the ingredients and chop everything as required.
- Combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl.
- Add the feta and garnish with fresh dill and pepper.
- Serve with a creamy dressing and enjoy!
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Pomegranate Seeds: These can be swapped with dried cranberries for a different twist.
- Feta Cheese: Substitute with goat cheese or a vegan cheese if needed.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add a Protein: Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of honey for extra zing.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad is best served fresh to preserve the crispness of the fruits and veggies.
FAQs
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, a balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing can be used for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but recommend adding the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Optional Personal Story
This salad is a holiday favorite in our family, often enjoyed as a light and refreshing side dish after a hearty main course. It brings out the spirit of the season!
Call-to-Action
Try making this colorful and vibrant Christmas Salad for your next holiday gathering! It’s sure to impress your guests!
