Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best Christmas salad ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Christmas Salad:
Arugula – I used arugula for the greens to add a peppery kick, but you can easily swap it for spinach or mixed greens for a different flavor and texture. Fruit – This Christmas salad has a combination of mandarin oranges (use extras for mandarin orange salad), apple slices, and pomegranate arils (seeds). You can also add or substitute apple chips, pears, dried cranberries, or other sweet citrus fruits (like grapefruit, clementines, or regular oranges) for similar festive flavors. Blue Cheese – The salty, pungent flavor is perfect for balancing out all the sweet fruit, but if you’re not a fan, tangy feta cheese or goat cheese make nice alternatives. Pecans – For crunch! You can also use walnuts or pistachios, or substitute pepitas or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Honey Vinaigrette:
Olive Oil – This makes up the base of the dressing. You could use avocado oil instead. Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tang and also blends with the olive oil to emulsify the dressing. White wine vinegar, white balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice can also work. Honey – I use Wholesome Yum natural sugar-free honey (sweet and gooey with no aftertaste!), but regular also works. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
How To Make A Christmas Salad
This section shows how to make a holiday salad, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day with the dressing, or 2-3 days if you store the dressing separately.
What To Serve With Holiday Salads
Serve this show-stopping Christmas salad with a complete holiday menu:
Appetizers – If you’re cooking up the whole feast, a simple Christmas charcuterie board makes a quick and easy appetizer, but you can’t go wrong with a cheese ball or some bacon wrapped water chestnuts. Main Course – Serve this festive salad alongside a centerpiece like roasted turkey breast, juicy prime rib roast, broiled lobster tails, deliciously poached lobster, or crab legs. Classic Holiday Sides – Make creamy mashed potatoes (or lighter mashed cauliflower), elegant green beans almondine, and classic creamed spinach.
More Christmas Salad Recipes
Want to serve a different salad for your holiday festivities? Try some of my other holiday favorites: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info uses natural sugar-free honey.
