Save A festive, vibrant salad shaped like a holiday tree, featuring tangy feta, sweet cranberries, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs—perfect as a centerpiece dip for celebrations.
This salad always brings joy to my holiday gatherings with its colorful presentation and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Base Salad: 2 cups baby spinach, finely chopped, 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, 1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped, 1 small English cucumber, diced, 1/2 cup scallions, thinly sliced
- Toppings: 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped, 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)
- Dressing: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish & Serving: Fresh rosemary sprigs (for the tree trunk and decoration), Assorted crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks, for dipping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, parsley, dill, cucumber, and scallions.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3:
- Pour the dressing over the chopped greens and toss gently to combine.
- Step 4:
- On a large serving platter, shape the salad mixture into a large triangle to resemble a holiday tree.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the tree to mimic snow.
- Step 6:
- Decorate with dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and pomegranate seeds for ornaments.
- Step 7:
- Place rosemary sprigs at the base to create a tree trunk and add a festive touch.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Save My family loves gathering around this salad every holiday season, making it a cherished tradition.
Notes
Substitute goat cheese for feta if desired. Add diced red bell pepper for extra color and crunch. For a vegan version, use vegan feta and maple syrup instead of honey. Pairs well with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Small bowl (for dressing), Whisk, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Serving platter
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 160, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 5 g
Save This cranberry and feta tree salad is a festive and refreshing addition to any celebration.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Yes, goat cheese works well as a creamy alternative, while vegan feta can be used for a plant-based option.
- → What nuts are best for this salad?
Toasted pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch and complement the tart cranberries.
- → How do I keep the herbs fresh and vibrant?
Finely chop herbs just before assembling and refrigerate the salad if not serving immediately to maintain freshness.
- → Is there a way to add extra color to the salad?
Adding diced red bell pepper enhances both color and texture without overpowering the flavors.
- → What kind of dressing is used for this salad?
A simple dressing of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper brings brightness and balance.