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Fresh Winter Salad Recipe Easy Crisp Greens and Citrus Mix for Healthy Meals

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A refreshing and comforting winter salad combining crisp greens and zesty citrus with a light honey-Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect for quick, healthy meals and winter gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups mixed crisp greens (such as kale, arugula, and baby spinach) – washed and dried
  • 1 cup shaved Brussels sprouts
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and julienned
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 2 medium oranges, peeled and segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Instructions

  1. Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with paper towels to remove all moisture. Chop any large kale leaves into bite-sized pieces. Set aside in a large salad bowl.
  2. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, shave the Brussels sprouts thinly. Julienne the carrot into thin matchsticks and add both to the greens.
  3. Carefully peel the oranges and grapefruit, removing all white pith. Hold each fruit over a bowl to catch juices, and cut between the membranes to release clean segments. Collect any juice for the dressing.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the collected citrus juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the dressing over the greens and citrus segments. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat every leaf with the dressing.
  6. Sprinkle toasted nuts and crumbled cheese on top for extra flavor and texture, if using.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a splash more olive oil or lemon juice if the salad seems dry.

Notes

Use fresh, firm greens to avoid sogginess. Segment citrus carefully to avoid bitter pith. Adjust dressing sweetness and acidity to taste. Dry greens thoroughly before tossing. Store dressing separately if preparing ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: winter salad, fresh salad, citrus salad, healthy salad, crisp greens, easy salad, vegan salad option, gluten-free salad