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The holiday season calls for dishes that aren’t just delicious but also eye-catching—and this Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad fits the bill perfectly! It’s fresh, vibrant, and shaped like a holiday wreath to bring a festive flair to your table. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying an intimate dinner, this salad will light up your menu.
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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad
A Feast for the Eyes and Palate
This salad is as stunning as it is scrumptious. The kiwi slices mimic ornaments on a wreath, and the vibrant greens and reds scream Christmas cheer.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
With the crispness of baby cos and rocket leaves, the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and kiwi, and the crunch of golden croutons, every bite is a textural delight.
Packed with Nutritional Goodness
This recipe is brimming with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free addition to your holiday feast.
Ingredients for Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to create this beautiful salad:
- 2 baby cos lettuces (trimmed and leaves separated)
- 200g baby rocket leaves
- 350g cherry tomatoes (halved for a pop of juicy sweetness)
- 2 small Lebanese cucumbers (thinly sliced)
- 2 ripe kiwis (peeled and sliced into rounds)
- 2 slices of thick grainy bread (cubed and toasted into golden croutons)
- 75ml extra-virgin olive oil (for dressing and frying croutons)
Necessary Tools
- A large serving platter (to arrange the wreath)
- A sharp knife for slicing ingredients
- A non-stick frying pan for toasting croutons
- Paper towels to drain excess oil from the croutons
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Lettuce Varieties: Swap baby cos with butter lettuce or baby spinach for a softer texture.
- Crouton Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or dried herbs before toasting the bread for extra flavor.
- Festive Fruit: Mix in some pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and tartness.
- Protein Boost: Include slices of grilled chicken, smoked salmon, or even cubed feta cheese.
How to Make the Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad
1. Prepare the Croutons
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Toss in the bread cubes, frying until golden and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove the croutons and drain them on paper towels.
2. Create the Wreath
On a large serving platter, arrange the cos lettuce and rocket leaves in a circular pattern to resemble a wreath. Keep the center open for that classic holiday look!
3. Add the Festive Flair
Scatter halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and kiwi rounds over the greens. Be intentional about spacing to create an evenly decorated “wreath.”
4. Top It Off and Serve
Sprinkle the croutons on top for added crunch. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil just before serving to keep the leaves fresh. Place it on the dining table as the centerpiece—it’s too pretty to hide!
What to Serve with Your Kiwi Wreath Salad
- Roast Turkey or Ham: This light and tangy salad is a fantastic companion to hearty holiday mains.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add a warm element with some balsamic-roasted veggies.
- Sparkling Drinks: Pair it with a citrusy mocktail or Prosecco for extra cheer.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Keep It Fresh: Assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
- Balance the Kiwi: If your kiwi is extra tangy, consider adding a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
- Crispy Croutons: Use day-old bread for croutons to ensure maximum crunchiness.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store the salad and croutons separately. Place the greens and toppings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the croutons in a dry, sealed container at room temperature to avoid sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the greens, slice the veggies, and toast the croutons a few hours ahead. Assemble everything just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Peel Kiwi?
Use a spoon! Cut off both ends, then slide a spoon between the skin and the fruit, rotating it to remove the peel.
Is There a Dairy-Free Dressing Alternative?
Absolutely! The olive oil works beautifully on its own, but you can also whisk in some lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for extra zing.
A Festive Treat That’s Fresh and Easy
This Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad is not just a dish—it’s an edible decoration! Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors will make it the star of your holiday spread. Plus, it’s quick to assemble and endlessly customizable.
Looking for more holiday inspiration? You’ll love these festive recipes:
- Christmas Caprese Wreath: A Festive Holiday Delight
- Oh Christmas Brie Cheese Platter: A Festive Centerpiece for the Holidays
- Christmas Fig Pomegranate Wreath Salad: A Festive Showstopper
Don’t forget to share your salad creations with us on Pinterest! Tag us at EMMARECIPES18 and show us your festive flair!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Christmas Kiwi Wreath Salad is a vibrant, festive dish perfect for holiday gatherings. With fresh greens, sweet kiwi, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy croutons, this stunning salad is both healthy and easy to prepare. Serve it as a centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 baby cos lettuces, trimmed and leaves separated
- 200g baby rocket leaves
- 350g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 small Lebanese cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 2 slices thick grainy bread, cubed and toasted for croutons
- 75ml extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add bread cubes and fry until golden and crispy. Set aside to cool.
- Arrange cos lettuce and rocket leaves on a large serving platter in a circular pattern to resemble a wreath.
- Evenly distribute cherry tomato halves, cucumber slices, and kiwi rounds over the greens.
- Sprinkle toasted croutons over the salad and drizzle with olive oil just before serving.
Notes
- For added festive color, sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the salad.
- Assemble just before serving to keep greens fresh and croutons crisp.
- Day-old bread works best for making croutons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (with pan-fried croutons)
- Cuisine: Holiday, Christmas
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the salad
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg