Enjoy this festive salad featuring the bright flavors of cranberries and orange paired with the crunch of pecans. It is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cheerful meal anytime.
Author:Sasha Nguyen
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:Tossing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Mixed greens (e.g., spring mix, spinach)
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
1 orange, segmented or supremed
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
For the Vinaigrette:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the dressing: Whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning. Let them cool slightly.
Combine the mixed greens, fresh cranberries, toasted pecans, and orange segments in a large bowl.
If using, gently sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the salad.
Pour the desired amount of vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For easy slicing, use a sharp knife to supreme the orange, removing all pith and membrane.
If you prefer a sweeter dressing, increase the honey slightly.
Toast the pecans ahead of time to save a step.
You can substitute walnuts for pecans if you wish.