Your holiday menu can’t be complete without a festive salad or two. These beautiful Christmas salad recipes will be a great addition to your holiday meal in a great way.
When we think about Christmas, we think about turkey (or ham), casseroles, soups, cakes, and all those delicious goodies that come with the holidays. However, salads are not on most people’s radar.
A nice salad can be a great side dish to add fiber to prevent piling on the weight during the holiday season. Since it increases fullness levels, it can prevent you from overeating.
Here, we’ll go over 31 delicious Christmas salad recipes that your entire family is going to enjoy for a Christmas feast, and they’ll probably want to go back for seconds.
Table of Contents
How to Make Salads More Delicious?
Most people think that green salads are boring. If you only use lettuce, A simple salad will surely be boring.
But it doesn’t have to be! It’s just a matter of which ingredients you use.
So, how can you make a salad more delicious?
- Mix the base. Most people only use lettuce as a base. Try adding other ingredients such as spinach, kale, or arugula (you can even replace lettuce with one of them entirely).
- Mix in a salad dressing. Use a nice dressing or try making one at home.
- Try different options. A salad doesn’t have to be lettuce and tomato. It can be any mix of other ingredients and vegetables.
What Can I Add to Salad to Make It Tastier?
The ingredients will make the salad the best or worst thing you’ve had. Here are some ingredients worth including to pack some flavor in every bite you take out of a salad.
- Nuts or seeds. Peanuts, walnuts, almonds, cashews, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can add some crunch to your salad.
- Fruit. Include a sweet hint to the salad by adding berries, oranges, grapefruit, or any other fruit.
- Fresh herbs. Mix in basil, mint, parsley, coriander, or any other fresh herb.
- Whole grains or legumes. Add options like quinoa, brown rice, barley, farro, beans, lentils, or chickpeas.
- Cheese. It adds some creamy texture to the salad. Try options like gouda, blue cheese, cottage cheese, or feta.
Christmas Salad Recipes
We all know that the holidays are so busy. For you not to have to think about which salad you are going to make, I’ve created a round-up of the most delicious Christmas salad recipes for you to try.
1. Chicken Salad with Apples
Source: allnutritious.com
Starting with a bang, we have this delicious chicken salad with apples.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it has 25 grams of protein per serving, making it a great option if you have trouble reaching your protein intake.
You can use a bed of lettuce or arugula along the recipe or add other ingredients to boost the flavor, such as grapes.
2. Cranberry Kale Salad with Cardamom Spiced Almonds and Homemade Cranberry Vinaigrette
Source: thereislifeafterwheat.com
When we think about the holidays, we think about cranberries. This tasty recipe will bring all the Christmas flavors into a salad.
Not only from the cranberries but also from the cardamon spiced almonds and pears.
Seriously, you’ll think about the holidays in every bite. And, if you want to make it even better, try adding some orange slices.
This is one of the best Christmas appetizers to complete your holiday meal!
3. Pear Salad with Candied Walnuts
Source: savoryexperiments.com
Another recipe to bring the holidays to your table is this pear salad with candied walnuts.
The mix of candied walnuts, goat cheese, cranberries, pears, and lettuce creates the perfect bite packed with flavors.
You can even make the salad in advance to save you time. However, make sure you don’t add the pears until you are going to eat the salad.
Otherwise, they are going to oxidize. And make sure to add the salad dressing at the end to prevent a soggy salad.
4. Christmas Fruit Salad
Source: foxeslovelemons.com
Salads do not necessarily have to be savory. They can be sweet too. So, if you have a sweet tooth, this colorful salad recipe with pomegranate arils is just for you.
This fruit salad will look like Christmas in a serving bowl (since it uses red and green fruit) and taste like it, too.
It uses Christmas flavors such as cinnamon, pomegranate and fresh ingredients like apples.
If you want more Christmas vibes, try using a cookie cutter with Christmas shapes to cut the pineapple and apple.
5. Brussels Sprout Salad
Source: joyfoodsunshine.com
Christmas is a time to spend with family. However, due to the cold weather, it is also a time when most people get sick.
If you are looking for a delicious salad and a way to strengthen your immune system, this is the right option.
Since Brussels sprouts are high in vitamin C, they can help reduce inflammation and enhance immune function. And, the best thing is that eating will be a pleasure.
6. Winter Apple Salad
Source: afarmgirlsdabbles.com
There is something very special about adding fruits to a salad. Not only can they add a hint of sweetness without overpowering the meal, but they can also provide different textures.
This winter apple salad uses Honeycrisp apples and pomegranates. Both are great ways to add some crunch to your salad.
On top of that, it uses Swiss cheese and pecans to provide a nutty and creamy flavor. I can assure you that every bite you take will be out of this world!
7. Christmas Wreath Salad
Source: urbanblisslife.com
This Christmas wreath salad is a dish everyone is going to be talking about at your next Christmas dinner party. Plating it in a round dish creates the sensation of a Christmas wreath (just like the name states).
So, it will be a delicious and nutritious meal, and people will simply love looking at it.
The best thing is that you can create different versions of this salad by adding other vegetables and ingredients of your liking.
8. Old-Fashioned Cranberry Salad
Source: plattertalk.com
Kids and adults are going to love this old-fashioned cranberry salad. This jello salad is a great sweet treat after everyone has eaten.
Its bold red color and flavors make this a great Christmas recipe. Imagine tasting cranberries, apples, walnuts, oranges, and strawberries with every bite.
My mouth is starting to water just thinking about it.
Now, while we are talking about Christmas salads, keep in mind that you can use other ingredients and have them any time during the year.
9. Sweet Potato Potato Salad
Source: strengthandsunshine.com
You know it will be a delicious recipe when the word potato is found twice. Forget about having a boring old potato salad. This recipe is going to be the best next thing at your Christmas party.
Its starchy base using sweet potatoes, and mayo dressing, provides the perfect balance between sweet and savory. And what I forgot to tell you is that it will only take you 15 minutes to make!
10. Spinach Apple Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
Source: lifeasastrawberry.com
Only have 15 minutes and don’t know what salad to prepare. I’ve got you covered!
This spinach apple salad with maple Dijon vinaigrette is the perfect salad to prepare when you don’t have enough time.
And don’t worry because the flavors will not be compromised just because you don’t have 30 minutes to spend.
11. Christmas Caprese Salad
Source: mapleandmango.com
Forget about having a Caprese salad the traditional way. This recipe will turn your Caprese salad into a delicious candy cane.
Well… up to a certain point. You still get the creamy flavor of the mozzarella that pairs so well with tomatoes and basil.
But what makes this recipe unique is that you plate it in a candy cane form. I love nothing more than finding different ways to plate my meals!
12. Winter Fruit Salad
Source: thetoastykitchen.com
Serve this winter fruit salad at your next Christmas party. You’ll need mandarin oranges, apples, pears, walnuts, maple syrup, and spices.
If you want to mix things up, you can always use other ingredients, such as apples, pomegranate seeds, kiwis, or tangerines. The sky is the limit when it comes to this winter fruit salad.
13. Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with Glazed Honey Walnuts
Source: sungrownkitchen.com
This is the perfect salad for those lovers of blue cheese! While most people don’t like the strong flavor of blue cheese.
Combining it with other ingredients, such as pomegranate, pear, and leafy greens, it reduces its intensity without affecting its overall flavor.
You can make this salad the night before. Just ensure you add the dressing and the pears before serving to prevent soggy greens or brown pears.
14. Christmas Salad with Chestnuts and Cranberry Balsamic Vinaigrette
Source: carnediem.blog
This vibrant salad brings Christmas flavors to one dish. Imagine eating leafy greens, roasted chestnuts, feta cheese, and dried cranberries.
And the best part is that you drizzle a delicious cranberry balsamic vinaigrette.
This tangy but sweet salad will make people want to go for seconds.
15. Rosolli Finnish Beetroot Salad
Source: veggiedesserts.com
Rosolli is a traditional Finnish salad made with vibrant colors. It offers different textures and flavors, perfect for a fun Christmas dinner.
The earthy flavors provided by the beets pair nicely with the potatoes, carrots, apples, and pickles. Every bit will provide such a complex blend of flavors you’ll keep on more and more.
Your guests will love this salad at healthy Christmas dinners!
16. Caprese Christmas Wreath
Source: itsnotcomplicatedrecipes.com
We’ve reviewed how to turn a Caprese salad into a candy cane. Well, at least in the form of a candy cane. If you want to mix things up, try this tasty Caprese salad that turns it into a Christmas wreath.
This recipe will look beautiful on your table. Imagine all the compliments you’ll get once your guests see this delicious meal.
17. Waldorf Fruit Salad
Source: cupcakesandkalechips.com
Take the traditional Waldorf salad to the next level with this recipe. This creamy Waldorf fruit salad can be the perfect salad to take for your next Christmas brunch.
While you can have this salad on its own, try adding it on top of some stack of pancakes. Just try it. You’ll be thanking me later.
18. Chickpea Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
Source: theyummybowl.com
This delicious chickpea kale salad can be the perfect side dish for your Christmas party, or it can be the main meal.
Drizzled with some lemon tahini dressing, this salad is highly refreshing and nutritious.
On top of the salad, you’ll find toasted chickpeas, cranberries, parmesan cheese, and hemp seeds. With every bite, you’ll hear that delicious crunch.
19. Christmas Salad with Citrus Champagne Vinaigrette
Source: twohealthykitchens.com
If you want to impress your friends at the next Christmas party, this fancy Christmas salad with citrus champagne vinaigrette is your best option.
Made to resemble a Christmas wreath, this salad combines the flavors of crunchy pistachios, tangy pomegranate seeds, juice oranges, and creamy goat cheese.
To tie everything together, you drizzle a delicious citrus champagne vinaigrette.
20. Mexican Christmas Eve Salad
Source: veggiessavetheday.com
If you want to try something different next time you have a Christmas party, try this Ensalada de Noche Buena or Mexican Christmas Even Salad.
To bring Mexico into your house, you’ll need lettuce, beets, pineapple, jicama, pomegranate seeds, and salted peanuts.
Have it along with some delicious guac or some chicken or beef fajitas to have a Mexican-style Christmas party.
21. Chicken Cobb “Christmas Tree” Holiday Salad
Source: twohealthykitchens.com
Imagine a salad in the shape of a Christmas tree. Well, with this recipe, you won’t have to imagine it, and you can actually do it in your house.
This take on a Cobb salad makes you transform it into a Christmas tree. I recommend making it with your kids as a way for them to fall in love and try different vegetables and ingredients.
22. Pomegranate Wild Rice Salad
Source: joyfulbalanceonline.com
People love wild rice salad. But if you are tired of having the same old wild rice salad every year, this recipe will take it to another level.
The recipe uses wild rice, pomegranate, carrots, arugula, sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, orange juice (and zest), tahini, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
Thanks to its vibrant colors, it makes it the best side dish for your Christmas party.
23. Christmas Apple Salad
Source: mommyevolution.com
Bring the essence of Christmas with this apple salad. In a bed of baby arugula, you’ll add on top apples, goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pecans.
Finish the dish by drizzling some balsamic dressing. The best part is putting it on a round plate to resemble a Christmas wreath.
This is one of the most mouth-watering Christmas appetizers!
24. Persimmon Salad
Source: runningtothekitchen.com
Often associated with good luck and longevity, persimmons are one of the best ingredients you can add to your favorite salad.
If you don’t know how to use this ingredient, this persimmon salad using prosciutto is one of the best salads you’ve ever had.
Mix it all with a honey and rosemary dressing, and you’ll get the most delicious Christmas salad recipe.
25. Apple and Farro Salad
Source: theorganickitchen.org
Featuring farro, this apple and farro salad is a refreshing salad you can serve at your next dinner party. If you don’t know what farro is, it is a grain that has a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
If you are looking to elevate a meal, adding farro not only provides an extra layer of flavor but it can also provide some crunch to your favorite salad.
Try this recipe, and let me know later your thoughts on it.
Check out these other delicious Christmas recipes!
26. Red Hot Jello Salad
Source: lovebakesgoodcakes.com
If you are up for the challenge, this red hot jello salad can bring some heat to your Christmas party.
So, how do you add some heat to your jello salad? The recipe asks for red-hot candies, which I find very inventive.
The combination of the red-hot candies with cherry-flavored gelatin, tart apples, celery, and chopped walnuts simply makes sense.
27. Christmas Wreath Salad with Pomegranate and Pear
Source: hauteandhealthyliving.com
This Christmas wreath salad with pomegranate and pear is a stunning dish perfect for the holidays. But besides looking amazing, its flavors are so delicious your guests will be out of words.
To make this recipe, you’ll need pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, pecans, spinach, dried cranberries, and pear. It’ll be Christmas at every bite.
28. Goat Cheese Salad with Arugula
Source: biteswithbri.com
We know that goat cheese and arugula simply go hand-in-hand. But we don’t want a boring goat cheese salad to serve our guests.
This take on a goat cheese salad with arugula has bold flavors your guests will enjoy.
Here, you’ll find interesting ingredients like strawberries, pecans, onion, cranberries, goat cheese, and honey. While it sounds like a mess, in the end, it all works to create a delicious Christmas salad.
29. Pomegranate Couscous Salad
Source: cookingwithcarlee.com
Looking for the perfect side dish for your ham? Look no more! This pomegranate couscous salad is the best side dish to go along with ham.
While couscous has neutral flavors, this recipe elevates the meal by adding onion, bell peppers, pomegranates, parsley, mint, maple syrup, and lime dressing.
Ultimately, you’ll get a delicious and refreshing salad.
This is a must-have for a festive Christmas dinner!
30. Caprese Christmas Tree
Source: sparklestosprinkles.com
We’ve talked about making a Caprese salad shaped like a candy cane and a wreath. But what about a Christmas tree?
This Caprese salad recipe transforms a traditional Caprese salad into an out-of-this-world experience.
If your kids are being picky with their vegetable consumption, I can assure you that this will do the trick.
31. Cranberry Salad
Source: therusticelk.com
The last Christmas salad I have for you is this cranberry salad.
Packed with fresh cranberries, sugar, strawberry jello, oranges, celery, walnuts, and apples, this delicious recipe can be the best dessert after having an amazing Christmas dinner.
Imagine having this delicious recipe next to your Christmas tree while you listen to some Christmas music.