Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Fresh Produce

01 - 4 cups fresh baby spinach or mixed greens
02 - 1 cup jewel-like pomegranate seeds
03 - 1 cup cranberries (fresh or dried)
04 - 1 medium apple (Gala or Granny Smith), thinly sliced
05 - ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

→ Toppings

06 - ½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
07 - ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

→ Honey Mustard Dressing

08 - 2 tablespoons golden honey
09 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
10 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
11 - ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
12 - A pinch each of salt and freshly ground pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Thoroughly wash your spinach or mixed greens and dry them well using a salad spinner or paper towels - dry leaves help the dressing stick better!
02 - Core and thinly slice your apple, keeping the skin on for extra color and nutrients. If using fresh pomegranate, gently remove the seeds, and if using fresh cranberries, you can leave them whole or halve them for a milder taste.
03 - For extra flavor and crunch, lightly toast the candied nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant. Let them cool before adding to your salad.
04 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - In a large bowl, combine your greens, pomegranate seeds, cranberries, apple slices, cooled nuts, and feta if using. Drizzle with the honey mustard dressing, starting with a little and adding more as needed. Toss gently and serve right away.

# Notes:

01 - This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings with its festive red and green colors
02 - You can prepare all components ahead of time, just dress the salad right before serving
03 - Feel free to swap dried cranberries for fresh ones if fresh aren't available