This Healthy Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is my favorite during winter.
Winter salads are a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce while staying healthy during the colder months. This Winter Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette features a delightful mix of crisp greens, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts, which are beautifully balanced with the creaminess of goat cheese. Furthermore, the tangy balsamic vinaigrette pulls everything together, creating a refreshing and delicious dish. Best of all, you can prepare this entire meal without any cooking—just toss, dress, and serve! As a result, it’s ideal for a quick and nutritious meal or as a side dish for any holiday gathering.
Ingredients of Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette.
- Mixed winter greens (kale, arugula, spinach) – 4 cups
- Pomegranate seeds – ½ cup
- Sliced apples or pears – 1 cup
- Goat cheese crumbles – ¼ cup
- Chopped walnuts or pecans – ¼ cup
- Dried cranberries – ¼ cup
- Avocado (optional) – 1 sliced
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- Balsamic vinegar – 3 tbsp
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Dijon mustard – 1 tsp
- Honey or maple syrup – 1 tsp
- Minced garlic – 1 clove
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Instructions to make Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Step 1: Prepare the Salad
Assemble the Greens: First, start by tossing together your mixed winter greens—kale, arugula, and spinach—in a large bowl to create the salad’s base.
Add Fruits and Nuts: Next, sprinkle the pomegranate seeds, apple or pear slices, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts or pecans over the greens. This combination not only provides a delightful mix of sweetness and crunch but also enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Top with Goat Cheese: Afterward, crumble the goat cheese over the salad, which adds a rich and creamy texture that enhances the dish further.
Optional Addition: If desired, include sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Step 2: Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. As a result, this tangy-sweet vinaigrette effectively brings all the flavors together.
Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste, whisking until smooth and well-blended for an evenly emulsified dressing.
Step 3: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
Toss everything gently to ensure that all the ingredients are lightly coated with the vinaigrette.
Serve Immediately: Present the salad as a vibrant side dish, or enjoy it as a healthy main. Furthermore, this dish pairs wonderfully with grains, roasted veggies, or even proteins like chicken or salmon.
Tips for making Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Use Seasonal Ingredients: For the best flavor, choose fresh, seasonal fruits like apples, pears, or even citrus.
- Add Texture: Including nuts or seeds gives the salad a satisfying crunch that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: You can prepare the balsamic vinaigrette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows for quick assembly when you’re ready to serve the salad.
FAQs about Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
How do I know if I’ve added enough dressing to my Healthy Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?
A good approach is to start with a light drizzle and toss the salad. If it seems too dry, you can always add more vinaigrette to taste.
Can I substitute the nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the walnuts or pecans for almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds if you prefer.
What other toppings can I add to my Healthy Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Additionally, you can experiment with roasted vegetables, crispy chickpeas, or slices of citrus fruits for added flavor and texture.
