and Honey-Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Imagine a salad that sings with vibrant colors and bursts of flavor, perfect for brightening any holiday meal or everyday dinner. This Christmas Salad with Spinach, Blueberries, Raspberries, Mandarin Oranges, Pecans, Feta, and Honey-Balsamic Dressing brings together sweet, tangy, nutty, and creamy elements in such a lively harmony you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. The fresh baby spinach forms a tender, leafy base that carries each juicy berry and citrus segment beautifully, while the toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, all elevated by the luscious and Honey-Balsamic Dressing that ties everything together with a sweet and tangy finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Christmas Salad lies in a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that each add a unique flavor and texture. The mix of fruit, nuts, greens, and cheese makes every bite interesting, while the simple yet flavorful and Honey-Balsamic Dressing brings everything cohesively together.
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach: The tender greens provide the perfect mild and slightly earthy base for the bright fruits.
- ½ cup blueberries: Small bursts of sweetness and a beautiful pop of deep color.
- ½ cup raspberries: Slightly tart and juicy, these berries add a lovely contrast.
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments: Their zest and juicy sweetness bring a citrus brightness that wakes up the salad.
- ¼ cup toasted pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and warm nutty flavor; toasting enhances their aroma.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and slightly salty, feta balances the sweetness of the fruit perfectly.
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for dressing): Smooth and rich, olive oil helps blend all dressing flavors.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Provides a deep tang and subtle sweetness in the dressing.
- 1 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness and smoothness to the vinaigrette.
- Salt & black pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
How to Make and Honey-Balsamic Dressing
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Start by combining the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk them vigorously until the dressing emulsifies and transforms into a glossy, harmonious blend. This simple step creates the sweet yet tangy foundation that will uplift every component of your salad.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, gently mix the baby spinach, blueberries, raspberries, and mandarin orange segments. Toss in the toasted pecans and crumbled feta cheese to add that wonderful crunch and creamy texture. Each ingredient should be evenly distributed so every forkful is a perfect balance of flavors.
Step 3: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the star of the show, the and Honey-Balsamic Dressing, over your beautifully assembled salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every leaf and fruit with that luscious, glossy vinaigrette. The sweet tang will highlight the natural vibrancy of the berries and oranges while complementing the toasted pecans and feta effortlessly.
How to Serve and Honey-Balsamic Dressing
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle additional toasted pecans or a few more fresh berries on top right before serving. This not only adds a charming pop of color but also invites guests to savor the varied textures. A small drizzle of extra and Honey-Balsamic Dressing can enhance the presentation and flavor just before it hits the table.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey for a holiday meal, but it’s equally stunning alongside grilled fish or lightly seasoned steak. Its bright and fruity profile complements hearty mains without overpowering them. You could also serve it with warm crusty bread to scoop up any leftover dressing and bites of spinach.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging this salad in individual glass bowls to showcase its gorgeous layers of color, or layer it in a large clear trifle bowl for an eye-catching centerpiece. For casual gatherings, serve in vibrant ceramic dishes or wooden bowls to emphasize the fresh, natural vibe. The and Honey-Balsamic Dressing lends itself to drizzling artistically over plated servings as a finishing touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components and the and Honey-Balsamic Dressing separately. Keep the dressing chilled in a small airtight container and the salad ingredients loosely covered in the refrigerator. Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within a few hours to maintain the spinach’s crispness and the berries’ freshness.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing because fresh berries, spinach, and mandarins can lose their texture and become mushy when thawed. The and Honey-Balsamic Dressing also separates upon freezing, so it’s definitely a fresh-made treat best enjoyed right away or within a day or two.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad with fresh ingredients, reheating is not recommended. The flavors and textures shine brightest served chilled or at room temperature, and warming it would diminish the crispness of the spinach and the integrity of the fruits.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is wonderful for its creamy and salty contrast, goat cheese or ricotta salata can also work beautifully if you want to experiment with flavors and textures.
Is there a substitution for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or sliced almonds make excellent substitutes for pecans, offering a slightly different crunch and flavor while maintaining the salad’s nutty element.
Can I make the and Honey-Balsamic Dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good whisk or shake before dressing the salad for the best consistency and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh mandarin oranges?
In a pinch, canned mandarin segments drained well or fresh orange slices can be used. Just be careful to dry them so the salad doesn’t get too watery.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
The salad is easily vegan-friendly by simply omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a plant-based alternative. The and Honey-Balsamic Dressing is naturally vegan, made with olive oil, vinegar, and honey (though some strict vegans may substitute honey with maple syrup).
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Salad with Spinach, Blueberries, Raspberries, Mandarin Oranges, Pecans, Feta, and Honey-Balsamic Dressing is truly a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that bring joy to any table. The way the and Honey-Balsamic Dressing wraps each bite in a sweet, tangy hug is something you’re going to want to share with friends and family all year long. Give it a try — it might just become your new favorite go-to salad for holidays and beyond.
