Description
Culinary magic blooms in this Winter Salad Wreath, a festive masterpiece blending seasonal greens and vibrant citrus notes. Guests will delight in its elegant presentation and fresh, zesty flavors that celebrate cold-weather bounty.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients:
Greens:
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, kale)
Fruits and Vegetables:
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup orange segments
- 1 cup thinly sliced radishes
- 1 cup thinly sliced fennel
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Citrus Vinaigrette:
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) olive oil
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Craft the citrus vinaigrette by combining freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices with Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small mixing container.
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously while gradually introducing olive oil in a slow, steady stream to create a smooth, well-integrated dressing.
- Select a large circular serving platter and meticulously spread mixed greens to form a wreath-like foundation, ensuring an open central space.
- Delicately distribute thinly sliced radishes and shaved fennel across the leafy base, creating an elegant layer of texture and color.
- Artfully place vibrant orange segments and jewel-like pomegranate seeds throughout the salad, ensuring even distribution.
- Scatter golden toasted walnuts and crumble tangy goat cheese over the arranged ingredients for additional depth and richness.
- Enhance the festive presentation by tucking fresh rosemary sprigs strategically around the salad’s perimeter, mimicking a traditional holiday wreath.
- Just before serving, either drizzle the prepared citrus vinaigrette generously over the salad or serve it separately in a elegant serving vessel.
Notes
- Make vinaigrette ahead of time to let flavors meld and develop a deeper, more complex taste profile.
- Choose fresh, crisp greens like arugula or baby spinach for better texture and vibrant color contrast.
- Swap goat cheese with plant-based alternatives like almond feta for vegan dietary needs.
- Toast walnuts carefully to enhance their nutty flavor without burning, watching them closely in a dry skillet.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg