It’s one of those make-ahead salads for Christmas that lets you spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating. With Honeycrisp apples adding a juicy crunch, it’s a delightful mix of flavor and festivity. Not only is this salad low-carb and gluten-free, but it also checks all the boxes for elegant Christmas salad recipes. Simple, festive, and so delicious, it’s bound to be a 5-star Christmas salad recipe you’ll return to every holiday season!
Why Try This Holiday Honeycrisp Salad Recipe?
Great for Skin Health: This salad is filled with nutrient-rich ingredients that benefit your skin, such as apples, greens, and olive oil. Seasonal Ingredients: Fall is apple season, so it’s the perfect time to take advantage of crisp, juicy Honeycrisp apples. Easy & Quick: With simple prep and a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for a holiday spread. Gluten-Free & High-Fiber: Perfect for anyone following gluten-free or low-carb diets, while also providing a healthy dose of fiber for digestive health. Great for Heart Health: The olive oil and fiber-rich ingredients support cardiovascular health, making this a heart-healthy addition to holiday feasts. Low-Calorie Option: A naturally low-calorie dish, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a lighter side without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Bell Pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch to balance the other flavors. Feel free to use red, yellow, or green bell peppers. Eggs: Rich in protein and help bind the salad ingredients together. Whisked and combined with feta, they add a creamy texture and depth. Greens: Provides a refreshing base for the salad while adding fiber, crunch, and that essential “good-for-skin” glow. Feta Cheese: A light, tangy cheese that adds creaminess without overpowering other flavors. It’s also a good source of calcium. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a sweet and savory flavor that balances the creaminess of the cheese and the freshness of the greens. Mushrooms: Sautéed for a rich, earthy flavor, they add a hearty texture and depth to the dish. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and chili flakes bring everything together, enhancing each ingredient’s flavor.
How To Make Holiday Honeycrisp Salad Recipe
Prep the Greens & Apples:
Begin by washing and thoroughly drying your salad greens with a salad spinner—this step is essential to help the dressing adhere well to the leaves. Cut the greens into bite-sized pieces, which makes the salad easier to eat and ensures balanced flavor in every bite. Next, thinly slice the Honeycrisp apples and add a squeeze of lemon juice to the slices; this prevents browning and adds a refreshing acidity.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a mason jar, combine olive oil, unsweetened apple juice, honey, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until emulsified, creating a smooth, well-mixed dressing. The mason jar method is quick and keeps things mess-free, though whisking or blending works just as well if you don’t have one.
Assemble the Salad:
Now add the greens and some apples (reserve some) in serving bowl and mix. Then add the salad dressing and mix thoroughly. Now layer the thin apple slices and toasted walnuts evenly across the top. Sprinkle in dried cranberries to add a tangy sweetness, which complements the crisp apples and nutty crunch from the walnuts. Lastly, add crumbled feta cheese, which brings a creamy texture and slight saltiness, balancing the salad’s sweetness without being too rich.
Substitutions You Can Make
Walnuts: You can use any nuts like almonds or pistachios. Greens: Romaine and iceberg are perfect, but if you like bolder greens, try baby spinach or arugula for a peppery flavor. Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or shredded mozzarella can be used if you’re looking for something creamier or less salty.
Creative Variations You Can Try
How to Serve the Holiday Honeycrisp Salad
Serve this salad as a vibrant starter for your holiday dinner or as a refreshing side alongside roasted potatoes. It also pairs well with other festive dishes like a cheese platter, charcuterie board, or a warm bread basket. This salad is also great as a quick, nourishing lunch when you want something light yet satisfying.
Storing
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
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