Are you looking for a delicious and festive side dish to elevate your Christmas dinner? Look no further! This Christmas Crunch Salad is a delightful mix of sweet, crunchy, and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This healthy meal is also a quick dinner idea, ideal for busy holiday schedules. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (you can substitute with couscous or rice)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup shredded red cabbage
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Quinoa: If using quinoa, cook according to package directions. Allow to cool completely. If using couscous or rice, cook and cool similarly.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa (or substitute), cranberries, pecans (or walnuts), feta cheese, red cabbage, and parsley.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Serve: Serve your Christmas Crunch Salad chilled as a delightful side dish alongside your Christmas dinner.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Salad:
- Toasting the Nuts: For an enhanced flavor and crunch, lightly toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
- Adding other ingredients: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other ingredients like dried cherries, chopped apples, or roasted sweet potatoes. Consider adding pomegranate seeds for an extra festive touch and vibrant color.
- Make it ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead of time, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy holiday schedules. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Delicious Variations:
- Citrus Crunch: Add segments of orange or mandarin orange for a burst of citrusy freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Goat Cheese Delight: Substitute goat cheese for feta cheese for a tangier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: 8-10 grams Fat: 15-20 grams Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams Fiber: 5-7 grams
This Christmas Crunch Salad offers a healthy and delicious way to add a festive touch to your holiday table. The combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy nuts, and tangy dressing creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that is sure to become a holiday favorite. Enjoy!