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Healthy Winter Salad

A vibrant and refreshing winter salad featuring mixed greens, mandarin oranges, pomegranate, toasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese with a light honey-Dijon vinaigrette.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Healthy, Seasonal
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups Mixed Greens e.g., spring mix, baby spinach, or a blend
  • 2 large Mandarin Oranges or 1 (11 oz) can, drained), peeled and segmented
  • 0.5 cup Pomegranate Arils
  • 0.5 cup Pecans lightly toasted and roughly chopped
  • 4 oz Goat Cheese crumbled
Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette
  • 0.25 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar or white wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup
  • 0.25 tsp Salt
  • 0.125 tsp Black Pepper

Equipment

  • Large Salad Bowl
  • Small Skillet (for pecans)
  • Whisk (or small jar for dressing)
  • Salad Spinner (optional, but recommended)

Method
 

  1. Wash and dry mixed greens. Place in a large bowl.
  2. Add peeled and segmented mandarin oranges and pomegranate arils to the bowl.
  3. Lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes. Let cool, chop, and add to the salad.
  4. Crumble goat cheese over the salad ingredients.
  5. Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
  6. Just before serving, pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure greens are thoroughly dry. Toast pecans carefully to prevent burning. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting. Taste and adjust dressing as needed.