Mediterranean Pear, Apple & Cranberry Christmas Salad with Feta Snowflakes
This Mediterranean Pear, Apple and Cranberry Christmas Salad is designed to look festive while still feeling fresh and balanced. It brings together crisp winter fruits, sweet-tart cranberries, creamy feta, and a light citrusy dressing that ties everything together without weighing it down. The idea of “feta snowflakes” comes from crumbling or shaving feta generously over the top so it looks like a soft snowfall across the salad. It’s colorful, bright, and perfect for holiday tables where rich dishes need a refreshing counterpoint. While it feels special enough for Christmas, the ingredients are simple and familiar, making it easy to prepare even on a busy day. This salad works as a starter, a side, or even a light main when paired with bread or grilled protein.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 10
Ingredients
For the Salad
4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
2 ripe but firm pears, thinly sliced
2 crisp apples (red or green), thinly sliced
¾ cup dried cranberries
½ cup walnuts, lightly toasted
150 g feta cheese, crumbled or shaved
¼ cup pomegranate seeds (optional, for color)
For the Dressing
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or orange juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Wash and dry the salad greens thoroughly and place them in a large serving bowl.
Slice the pears and apples thinly. If preparing ahead, toss them lightly with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Add the sliced pears and apples to the bowl with the greens.
Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly over the salad.
Add the toasted walnuts for crunch and warmth.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, citrus juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Drizzle the dressing lightly over the salad just before serving.
Gently toss to coat all ingredients without bruising the fruit.
Crumble or shave feta over the top so it resembles soft snowflakes.
Finish with pomegranate seeds if using, and serve immediately.
Tips
Use firm pears and apples so they hold their shape and stay crisp.
Dry the greens well to prevent a watery salad.
Toast walnuts briefly to enhance their flavor.
Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing.
Assemble the salad just before serving for best texture.
Use a mild, creamy feta for a softer “snowflake” look.
Balance sweet and tart by tasting before serving.
Chill the serving bowl for an extra-fresh presentation.
Slice fruit evenly for a clean, elegant look.
Keep extra feta on the side for guests who want more.
Variations
Replace walnuts with pistachios or almonds.
Add thinly sliced fennel for extra crunch.
Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier finish.
Add roasted chickpeas for protein.
Swap cranberries for dried cherries or figs.
Add orange segments for citrus brightness.
Use balsamic glaze instead of citrus dressing.
Add fresh mint or parsley for a herbal note.
Include quinoa to turn it into a hearty salad.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or sunflower seeds on top.
Q & A
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Prep ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving.
Will the apples turn brown?
A little lemon juice prevents browning.
Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, it is fully vegetarian.
Can I make it vegan?
Omit feta or use a plant-based alternative.
What apples work best?
Crisp varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Yes, but lightly sweeten them first.
How long does it last?
Best eaten fresh, but keeps up to one day refrigerated.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and sweet.
Can I add meat?
Grilled chicken or turkey pairs well.
What does it pair with?
Perfect alongside roasted meats or holiday mains.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 14 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Pear, Apple and Cranberry Christmas Salad with Feta Snowflakes is a refreshing break from heavy holiday dishes. It’s crisp, colorful, and full of contrast, with sweet fruit, tangy cheese, and a light citrus dressing that keeps everything balanced. Easy to prepare and beautiful on the table, this salad brings freshness and elegance to any festive meal. It’s the kind of recipe that looks special without requiring extra effort, making it a reliable favorite for Christmas and beyond.