Winter Salad with Citrus, Pomegranate, Feta, and Candied Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This vibrant Winter Salad combines fresh greens with juicy citrus, tangy pomegranate seeds, and creamy feta for a refreshing yet hearty dish. The sweet and tangy dressing perfectly complements the crunchy candied pecans, making it a delightful choice for a light lunch or a festive side.

Ingredients

• 7 cups mixed spring greens
• 1 1/4 cups orange segments (mandarin, oranges, clementines, or tangerines)
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (or substitute dried cranberries)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon shallot, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and chopped candied pecans.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced shallot, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
3. Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture to your taste, then gently toss everything to coat evenly. Serve immediately, reserving any leftover dressing for another use.

Tips & Variations

• Use dried cranberries instead of pomegranate seeds if fresh ones aren’t available—both add a pleasant tartness.
• For a nut-free option, omit the pecans and add toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower instead.
• Make the dressing in advance and store it refrigerated to let flavors meld; bring to room temperature before serving.
• Add sliced avocado or grilled chicken for extra richness and protein.

Storage

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing stored separately and stir well before using. For best texture, toss the salad with dressing just before serving. Leftover dressed salad is best enjoyed within a few hours to avoid sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of spring mix?

Yes, this salad works well with baby spinach, arugula, or a blend of your favorite leafy greens. Just choose tender greens for the best texture.

How can I make the dressing less sweet?

Reduce the honey to 1 teaspoon or substitute it with a small amount of lemon juice for a tangier, less sweet dressing.

Winter Salad with Citrus, Pomegranate, Feta, and Candied Pecans Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 93 reviews

This refreshing Winter Salad combines vibrant mixed spring greens with juicy orange segments, tangy pomegranate seeds, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a smooth honey-Dijon apple cider vinegar dressing. It’s a perfect light and flavorful dish ideal for the colder months, offering a balance of sweet, savory, and tart flavors with a satisfying crunch.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 7 cups mixed spring greens
• 1 1/4 cups orange segments (mandarin, oranges, clementines, or tangerines)
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (canned or substitute dried cranberries)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon shallot, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed spring greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped candied pecans. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and minced shallot until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
3. Toss the Salad with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture gradually, tossing gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Add dressing to taste, as you may not need to use it all.
4. Serve Immediately: Once tossed, serve the salad right away to enjoy the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors at their best.

Notes

• If fresh pomegranate seeds are unavailable, dried cranberries make a tasty substitute.
• Candied pecans add a sweet crunch, but you can substitute with toasted walnuts or almonds if desired.
• For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• This salad is best served fresh as the dressing can cause the greens to wilt if left too long.
• The dressing can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Keywords: Winter salad, mixed greens, orange segments, pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, candied pecans, honey-Dijon dressing, healthy salad, vegetarian