If you’re craving a salad that bursts with vibrant colors, delightful textures, and a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors, you’re going to love this Cranberry Pecan Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s an inviting mix of crisp greens, juicy dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, creamy feta cheese, and a luscious balsamic vinaigrette that elevates every bite. Whether you want a refreshing lunch, a festive side, or a light dinner, this salad manages to feel both nourishing and indulgent all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to this salad’s magic. Each component brings its own charm, from the nutty punch of toasted pecans to the fresh zing of balsamic vinaigrette, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that come together beautifully.
- Mixed greens (6 cups): A base of spinach, arugula, or spring mix gives the salad a fresh, vibrant foundation full of color and nutrients.
- Dried cranberries (1/2 cup): They add a sweet-tart pop that contrasts wonderfully with the savory and nutty ingredients.
- Pecans, toasted (1/2 cup): Toasting brings out their rich flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese (1/4 cup): The creamy saltiness of the cheese enriches the salad without overwhelming it.
- Red onion, thinly sliced (1/2 small): Adds a gentle pungency and a crisp bite.
- Apple or pear, thinly sliced (optional, 1): This provides juicy sweetness and a delicate crunch, making the salad even more festive.
- Balsamic vinaigrette (1/4 cup): The dressing ties everything together with its tangy, slightly sweet acidity.
- Pomegranate seeds (1/4 cup): These little jewels add burst of juicy freshness and color for extra flair.
- Grilled chicken slices (optional): For added protein if you want a heartier meal.
- Avocado slices (optional): Adds creaminess and richness for a lovely contrast.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by choosing a spacious salad bowl where you’ll toss all your ingredients. Add the mixed greens first, then sprinkle over the dried cranberries, toasted pecans, thinly sliced red onion, and the juicy apple or pear if you’re using it. This fresh base already hints at the delightful flavors waiting to unfold.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
Next comes the crumbled feta or goat cheese. Scatter it evenly across the salad so every forkful gets that creamy, tangy punch. Don’t worry about being too precise—the casual, rustic look of the cheese adds to the salad’s charm.
Step 3: Toss with Dressing
Drizzle your balsamic vinaigrette gently over the salad, aiming for even coverage but not too much dressing. The goal is to lightly coat the ingredients to enhance their natural flavors without weighing them down. Toss carefully with salad tongs or clean hands to combine everything just right.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the salad to individual plates or a large serving bowl. Add any optional toppings like fresh pomegranate seeds, grilled chicken slices, or creamy avocado on top to make it extra special. This is the moment when the salad truly dazzles visually and invitingly.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtful garnish. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds not only enhances the look with beautiful ruby reds but also adds bursts of juicy texture. Avocado slices offer silky smoothness, and grilled chicken elevates the salad into a complete meal, perfect for impressing family or guests.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with seasonal soups, freshly baked artisan bread, or even a light quiche if you’re planning a brunch or lunch spread. The sweet and tangy notes balance well with richer sides, making it versatile for different occasions and meal plans.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad in hollowed-out apple halves or crisp endive leaves to create delightful bite-sized appetizers. You can also layer the ingredients in a tall glass jar for a visually stunning salad parfait, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the salad ingredients separate from the dressing for best results. Store the greens, nuts, fruits, and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge, and the dressing in a small jar. Combine just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This Cranberry Pecan Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing greens and cheese can affect their texture. However, you can freeze any grilled chicken separately if you’ve added it, then thaw and slice fresh when needed.
Reheating
Since this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. If you’ve added grilled chicken, it can be gently reheated on the stove or microwave and then added back to the salad once warmed.
FAQs
Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese is a fantastic alternative if you want a similar creamy and tangy profile. For a milder option, try shredded mozzarella or a crumbly mild cheddar, though the flavor will change a bit.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Yes! Just omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Make sure your balsamic vinaigrette is vegan-friendly, or whip up a simple olive oil and lemon dressing instead.
How do I toast pecans perfectly?
Toasting pecans is easy: spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until you start to smell their nutty aroma. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Can I prepare the salad in advance for a party?
You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time, but combine and dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp. Storing ingredients separately and tossing right before the event is the way to go.
What other dressings work well with this salad?
While balsamic vinaigrette complements this salad beautifully, you can experiment with honey mustard, raspberry vinaigrette, or a citrus-based dressing to add different flavor dimensions.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Pecan Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe has a way of turning everyday salad into something truly special. Its balance of flavors and textures never fails to impress, whether for a weekday lunch or holiday gathering. I encourage you to give it a try—it just might become your new favorite go-to salad!
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Cranberry Pecan Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Salad is a fresh and festive delight perfect for gatherings or a nutritious meal. It features a crisp mix of greens, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, tangy crumbled feta or goat cheese, and thinly sliced red onions and fruit. Tossed lightly in a balsamic vinaigrette and garnished with pomegranate seeds and optional grilled chicken or avocado slices, this salad offers a refreshing balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple or pear, thinly sliced (optional)
Cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
Dressing and Garnishes
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or your favorite dressing)
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- Grilled chicken slices (for added protein, optional)
- Avocado slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced apple or pear if using. Mix gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad to add a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruits and cranberries.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette lightly over the salad. Use just enough to coat the ingredients without overdressing. Toss gently to combine all the flavors and textures evenly.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to individual plates. Garnish with optional add-ins such as pomegranate seeds, grilled chicken slices, or avocado slices for additional flavor, texture, and nutrition.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh crunch and vibrant flavors of this festive salad.
Notes
- Toast the pecans beforehand in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant for enhanced flavor.
- Use a light hand when adding dressing to avoid soggy greens.
- For a vegetarian meal, omit grilled chicken or use a plant-based protein.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta or a vegan cheese to accommodate dietary preferences.
- If pomegranate seeds are unavailable, consider using additional dried cranberries or fresh berries for garnish.
