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

Scale

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)

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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.