Christmas Salad With Honey Mustard Dressing

Need a salad that actually feels like Christmas? This one’s bright, fresh, and full of cheer. Plus, the honey mustard dressing? Totally next level.

It’s got crunch, it’s got color, and it’s got that sweet-and-tangy zing. Every bite feels like a holiday hug. Even salad-haters will be into it.

Want something pretty on the table that’s also super easy? This is your go-to. It’s fast, festive, and so, so tasty.

So let’s toss it all together! Grab a big bowl and let the holiday flavor begin. Salad has never felt this merry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Holiday-Ready and Gorgeous: This salad looks like Christmas on a plate — red pomegranate, green leaves, snowy cheese.
• Layered Flavors: Sweet, salty, tangy, creamy, crunchy — everything plays together like a choir.
• Easy to Prep Ahead: Make the dressing and prep the components early, then assemble fresh in minutes.
• Flexible: Works with pears or apples, goat cheese or blue, whatever you’ve got.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Even salad skeptics usually ask for seconds.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: Serves 6 to 8 as a side salad.
Difficulty: Very easy — just chop, toast, whisk, and toss.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl or jar with lid (for dressing)
• Cutting board and knife
• Skillet (for toasting seeds and nuts)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk

Ingredients for Christmas Salad With Honey Mustard Dressing

Here’s everything you’ll need to build this festive dish:

Salad

• 6 cups mixed greens – A combo of baby spinach, arugula, and spring mix works well.
• 2 cups frisée – Adds a curly crunch and mild bitterness.
• 1–2 apples or pears, chopped – Choose crisp, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Bosc.
• 2 avocados, sliced – Adds creamy richness.
• 2 cups pomegranate arils – For juicy bursts of holiday color.
• 1 cup crumbled cheese – Blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese all work great.
• 1½ cups raw walnuts – Lightly toasted for extra flavor.
• ½ cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas) – Adds crunch and color.

Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil – The base of the dressing.
• ¼ cup balsamic or apple cider vinegar – Both pair beautifully with the salad’s sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons honey – To balance the acidity.
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth.
• 1 tablespoon fig preserves – Optional, but it brings subtle holiday sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons orange zest + 2 tablespoons orange juice – For citrusy brightness.
• Kosher salt and black pepper – To taste.
• A pinch of chili flakes – Optional, for a tiny kick.

Variations for Christmas Salad

• Swap the Fruit: Try persimmons, dried cranberries, or fresh oranges if you’re out of pears or apples.
• Use Candied Nuts: Candied pecans or maple-roasted walnuts add a sweet crunch.
• Go Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to keep it vegan.
• Add Protein: Top with roasted chicken, salmon, or chickpeas to make it a full meal.
• Make It Grainy: Add cooked quinoa or farro for an earthy, hearty twist.

How to Make Christmas Salad With Honey Mustard Dressing: Step-by-Step

1. Toast the Nuts and Seeds

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and pumpkin seeds, stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant — about 3–4 minutes. Set aside to cool.

2. Chop and Slice

• Core and chop the apples or pears (no need to peel).
• Slice the avocados just before serving so they don’t brown.
• If using a block of cheese, crumble or cut it into bite-sized chunks.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, fig preserves, orange zest, and juice. Add salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste. Shake or whisk until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, frisée, apples or pears, pomegranate arils, avocado slices, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, and seeds.

5. Dress and Toss

Drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving. Toss gently to combine — just enough to coat everything without bruising the greens.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This salad shines on a holiday table — both in flavor and looks. Here are some tips:

• Use a Wide, Shallow Bowl: It helps show off the colorful ingredients instead of hiding them.
• Top It Last-Minute: Add avocado and cheese just before serving for the freshest look.
• Garnish with Extra Pomegranate: Scatter a few extra arils on top like edible jewels.
• Serve with Tongs or a Wide Spoon: So the creamy avocado and soft cheese don’t get smashed.

How to Store Leftovers

Short-Term Storage:

• If undressed, store components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• If dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours. The greens will soften but still taste great.

Dressing Storage:

• Store leftover dressing in a jar with a tight lid in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Give it a good shake before using again.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Dry Greens Well: Use a salad spinner or pat dry with a towel. Wet greens dilute the dressing and make it soggy.
• Balance Sweetness: Taste the dressing and adjust honey or mustard as needed — the fruit adds natural sweetness.
• Use Ripe Avocados: Just-soft ones hold their shape better in the salad.
• Add Dressing in Layers: If serving a crowd, dress in stages so all ingredients are evenly coated.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	310 kcal
Total Fat	24 g
Saturated Fat	5 g
Carbohydrates	20 g
Sugars	12 g
Fiber	6 g
Protein	6 g
Sodium	230 mg

Christmas Salad FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes — prep all components and store separately. Add avocado and dressing just before serving.

What if I can’t find pomegranate arils?
Use dried cranberries or orange slices as a festive substitute.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
You can, but the homemade version is worth it — it brings all the flavors together beautifully.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing brings freshness, color, and a perfect balance of flavors to your holiday table. It’s simple, satisfying, and festive enough to serve at your most special gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or bringing a dish to share, this one’s always a hit.