Pin it 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 brightens our holiday table and brings a festive spirit to gatherings.
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.
Pin it Our family loves gathering around this colorful salad every holiday season, making memories as we share the festive feast.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 160, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 5 g per serving.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese) and tree nuts (pecans or walnuts). Use nut-free toppings if needed for allergies. Gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage to enhance the festive flavors.
Pin it This festive salad is sure to become a holiday tradition with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
Common Questions
- → What ingredients give the salad its festive appearance?
The salad's triangular shape resembles a holiday tree, decorated with crumbled feta cheese as snow, dried cranberries as ornaments, toasted nuts for texture, and fresh rosemary sprigs as the tree trunk.
- → Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or vegan feta work well as alternatives, adjusting the tanginess and texture to your preference.
- → What dressing is used for the salad?
A light dressing made from extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper enhances the fresh greens.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as gluten-free crackers or dippers are served alongside, the salad itself contains no gluten ingredients.
- → How can I add more color or crunch?
Diced red bell pepper can be added for extra color and crunch, complementing the existing textures.