Description
Cranberry Pecan Salad is a fresh and festive dish that’s perfect for light lunches or as a side for any occasion. This salad combines mixed greens with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, creamy feta or goat cheese, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Optional add-ins like apple slices, pomegranate seeds, grilled chicken, and avocado elevate the flavors, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple or pear, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or your favorite dressing)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- Grilled chicken slices (for added protein)
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, red onion, and sliced apple or pear if using.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to overdress—start with a little and add more if needed.
- Serve: Transfer to individual plates and garnish with any optional add-ins like pomegranate seeds, grilled chicken, or avocado.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, crunchy, and slightly sweet salad!
Notes
- If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
- For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
- Experiment with different cheese types or dressings to customize the salad to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the salad
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg