Name: Christmas Crunch Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 bundle spring mix; 4 radishes radishes (thinly sliced into half-moons); 1/2 cup red onion (very thinly sliced); 1 cup red pepper (diced); 1/2 cup pomegranate arils; 1/2 cup candied pecans (lightly crushed); 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp stone ground mustard; 1 pinch salt; 1 pinch black pepper

This Christmas Crunch Salad is the prettiest thing on the holiday table. Tender spring mix gets topped with ruby pomegranate arils, crisp radishes, red pepper, candied pecans, and creamy goat cheese, then finished with a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette.

It takes 15 minutes, needs no cooking, and adds a fresh, crunchy bite next to all the rich holiday mains. It looks festive with zero extra effort.

Christmas Crunch Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Crunch Salad

Festive colors: red and green without trying.
No cooking: ready in 15 minutes.
Big crunch: radishes, peppers, and candied pecans.
Homemade maple vinaigrette: sweet, tangy, and whisked in a minute.

Christmas Crunch Salad Ingredients

Spring Mix

A soft, mild base that lets the toppings shine.

Radishes, Red Pepper and Red Onion

These bring the crunch and color. Slice the radishes and onion very thin.

Pomegranate Arils

Juicy little bursts of sweet-tart flavor that make the salad look like Christmas.

Candied Pecans and Goat Cheese

Sweet crunch and creamy tang. Lightly crush the pecans so they spread through every bite.

Maple Vinaigrette

Olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon, stone ground mustard, salt, and pepper.

Dietary Swap: Naturally gluten-free. For dairy-free, skip the goat cheese or use a dairy-free crumble. Swap the pecans for pepitas for a nut-free version.

How to Make Christmas Crunch Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

Arrange the spring mix across a large serving dish. Scatter the radishes, red pepper, onion, and pomegranate arils over the greens.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Whisk all the dressing ingredients together. Add water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then finish with goat cheese crumbles and candied pecans.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Dress right before serving. Spring mix wilts fast, so add the vinaigrette at the table.
Slice thin. Paper-thin radishes and onion look elegant and are easier to eat.
Top last. Add the pecans and goat cheese at the end so they stay on top and look beautiful.
Shake the dressing. A jar with a lid makes mixing and re-mixing easy.

Make It Your Own

Add fruit: Sliced pears, apples, or mandarin oranges.
Swap the cheese: Feta or blue cheese both work.
Make it a meal: Top with grilled chicken or salmon.
Change the nuts: Candied walnuts or toasted almonds.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Make the vinaigrette up to 5 days ahead and chill it. Prep the radishes, pepper, and onion the day before and store them separately. Assemble just before serving.

What to Serve With Christmas Crunch Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with holiday ham, prime rib, roast turkey, or roast chicken. Add a basket of warm rolls and a cheesy potato side for a full holiday spread.

Storing and Reheating

Dressed salad: Best eaten the same day.

Undressed salad: Keeps in the fridge for 1 to 2 days with toppings stored separately.

Dressing: Keeps for up to 5 days in a sealed jar. Shake well before using.

What People Ask About Christmas Crunch Salad

Can I make Christmas Crunch Salad ahead?

Prep the components ahead and assemble right before serving so the greens stay crisp.

Can I use a different lettuce?

Yes. Baby spinach, arugula, or chopped romaine all work.

How do I thin the dressing?

Add water a teaspoon at a time while whisking.

Can I use store-bought candied pecans?

Yes, that is the easiest option.