Winter Salad Wreath Recipe: A Festive Centerpiece for Your Holiday Table

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a dish that doubles as decor? This Winter Salad Wreath is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Packed with vibrant greens, sweet citrus, tangy feta, and crunchy candied pecans, this salad is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It’s a stunning addition to any table and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ready to make your holiday menu shine? Let’s dive into the details.

Why You’ll Love This Winter Salad Wreath

This isn’t your average salad. It’s:

• Visually Stunning: A salad shaped like a festive wreath? Show-stopping!
• Bursting with Flavors: Sweet oranges, tangy pomegranate, and creamy feta—pure magic!
• Nutritious and Light: A refreshing, guilt-free complement to hearty holiday dishes.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

What Does the Winter Salad Wreath Taste Like?

Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The citrusy brightness of orange segments pairs beautifully with the juicy pops of pomegranate seeds and the salty crumble of feta cheese. Add in the crunch of candied pecans and the subtle zing of the apple cider vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that feels like a holiday party in your mouth!

Benefits of the Winter Salad Wreath

• Eye-catching centerpiece: It’s more than food; it’s decor!
• Quick to make: Assemble it in under 20 minutes.
• Healthy option: Perfect for balancing indulgent holiday meals.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this festive salad:

For the Salad:

• 7 cups mixed spring greens
• 1 ¼ cups orange segments (mandarin, clementines, or tangerines)
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds (or dried cranberries)
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup candied pecans, roughly chopped

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp shallot, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Necessary Tools

• Large serving platter (preferably round for the wreath shape)
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Knife for chopping pecans

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Citrus Alternatives: Swap oranges for grapefruit or blood oranges for a bolder flavor.
• Nuts: Try walnuts or slivered almonds instead of candied pecans.
• Cheese: Goat cheese works beautifully if you don’t have feta.
• Dressing Variations: Add a splash of orange juice or replace honey with maple syrup for a seasonal twist.

How to Make the Winter Salad Wreath

1. Prepare the Base:
   Arrange the mixed greens on a round serving platter, forming a circular wreath. Leave the center empty for the wreath effect.
2. Add Festive Colors:
   Evenly scatter orange segments, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and chopped candied pecans over the greens. Think of these as your “ornaments”!
3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced shallot, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until emulsified.
4. Dress the Wreath:
   Drizzle the dressing lightly over the salad, ensuring every bite is flavorful without over-soaking the greens.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Finish with a few sprigs of rosemary or a sprinkle of extra pomegranate seeds for a final holiday flourish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

this Recipe

What to Serve With the Winter Salad Wreath

• Mains: This salad pairs beautifully with roast turkey, glazed ham, or a vegetarian nut roast.
• Sides: Serve alongside warm dinner rolls, creamy mashed potatoes, or a festive soup like butternut squash bisque.
• Beverages: A crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of citrus complements the salad perfectly.

Tips for Making the Perfect Winter Salad Wreath

• Fresh is Best: Use the freshest greens and oranges to ensure the salad is vibrant and crisp.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Evenly distribute toppings for a visually balanced and delicious salad.
• Chill the Dressing: Preparing the dressing in advance and chilling it enhances the flavors.

Storage Instructions

• Leftover Salad: Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Dressing: Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake well before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the greens and toppings ahead but add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Just ensure the feta cheese you use is vegetarian.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, though homemade dressing elevates the flavors and adds a personal touch.

A Festive Dish to Remember

This Winter Salad Wreath is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of the season. It’s quick, beautiful, and bursting with flavors that capture the joy of the holidays. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a cozy dinner for family, this salad will steal the show.

Loved this recipe? Try these next:

• 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 leave a review below and share your festive creations with us on Pinterest!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g

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