If you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful dish to brighten up your winter meals, this Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a vibrant blend of crisp mixed greens, sweet apple slices, juicy pomegranate seeds, crunchy candied nuts, and creamy goat cheese, all tied together with a perfectly balanced tangy vinaigrette that you make at home. This salad not only bursts with seasonal textures and tastes but also offers an inviting way to enjoy the best flavors of winter in a single bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to a great salad, and this Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe is no exception. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding crunch, creaminess, sweetness, or that signature tang from the dressing, creating a harmony of flavors and colors.
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or kale): Choose your favorite combination for a fresh, leafy base full of nutrients.
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced: Adds crisp sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the greens.
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds: These jewel-like seeds bring bursts of tart juiciness and beautiful color.
- 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts: Sweet and crunchy, they add a satisfying texture that complements the salad.
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta: Creamy and slightly tangy, it enriches the salad with depth and richness.
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion: A little sharp bite that enhances the salad’s complexity.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: The base of our homemade vinaigrette providing smooth richness.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Gives a bright, tangy punch to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle spicy note that emulsifies the vinaigrette beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the salad and dressing.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by washing and drying your mixed greens thoroughly. Place the greens in a large salad bowl to create the fresh, leafy foundation for all the wonderful flavors and textures that will come together. The greens should be crisp and vibrant, setting the stage for the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Add the Fresh and Crunchy Ingredients
Thinly slice the apple and red onion, and sprinkle them over the greens. Then gently scatter the pomegranate seeds and candied pecans or walnuts on top. These ingredients bring varied flavors and textures that make this salad exciting and refreshing with every bite.
Step 3: Crumble the Cheese
Sprinkle the goat cheese or feta evenly over the salad. The creamy tang of the cheese will beautifully balance the sweet and tart elements, adding an indulgent touch without overpowering the lighter components.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Tangy Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the ingredients emulsify into a smooth, tangy vinaigrette. This homemade dressing is what sets this salad apart with its perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
Step 5: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently but thoroughly to make sure every leaf and ingredient is coated in the delightful dressing. This step maximizes the flavor impact without wilting the greens.
How to Serve Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra wow factor, sprinkle some additional candied nuts or a few pomegranate seeds on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra olive oil can also enhance the flavors and add a lovely sheen.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a hearty vegetable soup. Its fresh, bright flavors make it a perfect counterbalance to rich or warm dishes typically enjoyed during the colder months.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, serve this Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe in individual glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. Alternatively, layering ingredients in a mason jar makes it a stunning, portable lunch option that keeps the salad crisp until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the salad and vinaigrette separate to maintain freshness. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate greens and fresh fruits. The vinaigrette can be stored in the freezer separately in a tightly sealed container for up to a month, but thaw and shake well before use.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be served cold and fresh, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy any leftovers chilled or repurpose the solid ingredients like nuts and cheese for other meals.
FAQs
Can I use other types of greens in this Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe?
Absolutely! While spinach, arugula, and kale work beautifully, you can experiment with other greens like romaine or butter lettuce depending on your preference and what’s available.
Is there a vegan option for this salad?
Yes, simply omit the goat cheese or feta and replace honey with maple syrup in the vinaigrette. The salad still shines with all the other flavorful ingredients.
How can I make the candied nuts at home?
It’s super easy! Toast your choice of nuts in a pan with a little sugar and a pinch of salt until they turn golden and glossy. Let them cool before adding to the salad for a sweet crunch.
Can I prepare the vinaigrette in advance?
Definitely! The vinaigrette keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before dressing your salad.
What if I don’t have pomegranate seeds?
You can substitute with dried cranberries or fresh red grapes for some sweet tartness and a pop of color. Both work wonderfully to maintain the salad’s seasonal vibe.
Final Thoughts
This Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe is a fantastic way to celebrate seasonal produce and brighten up your meals with fresh, bold flavors. It’s easy to put together, adaptable to what you have on hand, and guaranteed to become a staple in your winter recipe lineup. Give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Winter Salad with Tangy Homemade Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Winter Salad featuring mixed greens, crisp apples, pomegranate seeds, candied nuts, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette perfect for a light, healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or kale)
- 1 large apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup candied pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens. Thinly slice the apple and red onion. Measure out the pomegranate seeds, candied pecans or walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese or feta.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified and smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, candied nuts, goat cheese or feta, and red onion slices.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine and coat all components evenly. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use any mixture of greens you prefer such as baby spinach, arugula, or kale for the base.
- For a vegan option, substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or omit it entirely.
- Candied pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch and sweetness, but toasted nuts can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust the vinaigrette’s sweetness and acidity by adding more honey or vinegar based on your taste preference.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the greens and apple.
