Save to Pinterest A festive, vibrant salad shaped like a holiday tree featuring tangy feta sweet cranberries crunchy nuts and fresh herbs perfect as a centerpiece dip for celebrations.
This salad quickly became a holiday favorite in my family as the colorful tree shape always impresses guests and the combination of ingredients keeps everyone coming back for more
Ingredients
- Base Salad: 2 cups baby spinach finely chopped 1 cup fresh parsley finely chopped 1 cup fresh dill finely chopped 1 small English cucumber diced 1/2 cup scallions thinly sliced
- Toppings: 3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts roughly chopped 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)
- Dressing: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish & Serving: Fresh rosemary sprigs (for the tree trunk and decoration) Assorted crackers pita chips or vegetable sticks for dipping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl combine the chopped spinach parsley dill cucumber and scallions.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil lemon juice honey (or maple syrup) Dijon mustard salt and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3:
- Pour the dressing over the chopped greens and toss gently to combine.
- Step 4:
- On a large serving platter shape the salad mixture into a large triangle to resemble a holiday tree.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the tree to mimic snow.
- Step 6:
- Decorate with dried cranberries toasted nuts and pomegranate seeds for ornaments.
- Step 7:
- Place rosemary sprigs at the base to create a tree trunk and add a festive touch.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately with crackers pita chips or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has brought many joyful holiday moments as guests admire the creative salad design and savor the fresh flavors
Notes
Substitute goat cheese for feta if desired Add diced red bell pepper for extra color and crunch For a vegan version use vegan feta and maple syrup instead of honey Pairs well with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Small bowl (for dressing) Whisk Chefs knife Cutting board Serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese) and tree nuts (pecans or walnuts) Use nut-free toppings if needed for allergies Gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers check all ingredient labels for allergens
Save to Pinterest This festive tree dip salad is simple to prepare yet stunning to serve making your celebrations extra special
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes this salad festive?
The salad is shaped like a holiday tree and decorated with feta 'snow,' dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and pomegranate seeds for a decorative touch.
- → Can I substitute the nuts for allergies?
Yes, you can omit the nuts or replace them with nut-free crunchy toppings to accommodate allergies.
- → Is this salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, when paired with gluten-free crackers or chips, the salad is naturally gluten-free.
- → How do I make the dressing for the salad?
Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- → Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Goat cheese is a good alternative to feta if you prefer a milder, creamy texture while maintaining a tangy flavor.
- → How should I serve this salad?
Serve immediately on a large platter with crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks for dipping.