Description

This Cranberry Pecan Salad is a fresh and festive delight, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or side dish. It combines mixed greens with the sweetness of dried cranberries, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the tangy creaminess of crumbled feta or goat cheese. Optional additions like apple or pear slices, pomegranate seeds, grilled chicken, and avocado add extra layers of texture and nutrition, making it a vibrant and satisfying salad.

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

1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or your favorite dressing)

Garnishes and Add-Ins

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
Grilled chicken slices (for added protein, optional)
Avocado slices (optional)

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Instructions

Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, place the mixed greens, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, thinly sliced red onion, and the sliced apple or pear if using. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese evenly over the top of the salad to add a creamy and tangy contrast.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients without overdressing. Start with a small amount of dressing and add more as needed to taste.
Garnish and Add Protein: Transfer the salad to individual plates. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and add optional toppings like grilled chicken slices and avocado slices for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crunchy texture and the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in this delightful salad.

Notes

To toast pecans, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
You can substitute goat cheese for feta based on preference or dietary needs.
For a vegan option, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative and choose a vegan dressing.
The salad is best served fresh to maintain the crisp texture of the greens and fruit.
Add grilled chicken or avocado for a more substantial meal.