Amazing 15-Minute Thanksgiving Salad Everyone Loves Recipe
Introduction
This Amazing 15-Minute Thanksgiving Salad is a fresh and flavorful addition to your holiday table. Combining crisp greens, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, creamy feta, and juicy apples, it’s a crowd-pleaser everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly to ensure a crisp salad.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the greens with dried cranberries, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and thin apple slices.
- Step 3: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Step 4: Serve the salad immediately to maintain freshness and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the salad.
- Substitute goat cheese for feta to add a tangier flavor.
- Use a honey mustard vinaigrette instead of balsamic for a sweeter twist.
- Add sliced pears or pomegranate seeds for additional festive flair.
Storage
Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. If pre-dressed, consume within a few hours and refrigerate promptly. Leftover salad is best enjoyed fresh rather than reheated.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare ingredients ahead by washing greens and slicing apples, but keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of dried cranberries?
Dried cherries or golden raisins make delicious substitutes and offer a similarly sweet and tart flavor to the salad.
PrintAmazing 15-Minute Thanksgiving Salad Everyone Loves Recipe
This Amazing 15-Minute Thanksgiving Salad is a fresh and flavorful side dish perfect for any holiday gathering. Combining crisp mixed greens with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, tangy feta cheese, and crisp apple slices, all lightly dressed in a rich balsamic vinaigrette, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that everyone will love. Quick to prepare and refreshing, it’s an ideal complement to your Thanksgiving feast or any meal needing a vibrant touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare the greens: Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly to remove any dirt and excess moisture, ensuring the salad stays crisp.
- Combine ingredients: Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced apple for a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
- Add dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to evenly coat all components without wilting the greens.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates and serve right away to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding.
- Choose a crisp apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor and texture.
- Use your favorite balsamic vinaigrette or make your own with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be prepped up to 1 hour in advance if kept chilled.
Keywords: Thanksgiving salad, mixed greens salad, quick salad recipe, holiday salad, feta cheese salad, cranberry salad, pecan salad, apple salad, balsamic vinaigrette salad
