Red and Green Salad

Nothing brings a plate to life quite like a Red and Green Salad. Bursting with vivid colors, crisp textures, and a harmonious balance of flavors, this salad is the ultimate addition to any festive table. Perfect for Christmas, holiday parties, or even a weeknight dinner, this salad combines the freshness of garden vegetables with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that elevates every bite. Beyond its visual appeal, the Red and Green Salad is a nutrient-packed powerhouse, offering vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Red and Green Salad

  • Vibrant Presentation: The mix of red and green vegetables makes it perfect for holiday entertaining and Instagram-worthy plating.

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weekdays or last-minute party prep.

  • Nutritious & Filling: Packed with fiber, healthy fats from avocado and nuts, and vitamins from fresh veggies.

  • Customizable: Swap in your favorite greens or nuts, or add seasonal fruits like cranberries or pomegranate.

  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegan and gluten-free, with easy options to make it keto or paleo-friendly.

  • Flavor Explosion: Sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy dressing create a balance that pleases all palates.

  • Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients that can be sourced fresh from your local market.

  • Elegant & Gourmet: Optional feta, walnuts, or pecans turn this simple salad into a sophisticated dish.

Ingredients for Red and Green Salad

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine) – fresh and crisp for texture.

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – adds natural sweetness.

  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – for vibrant color and mild crunch.

  • 1 cucumber, sliced – refreshing, adds juiciness.

  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced – sharp contrast to sweet veggies.

  • 1 avocado, diced – creamy texture balances the crisp vegetables.

  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional) – adds a savory depth.

  • 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional) – for crunch and healthy fats.

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil – healthy fat base.

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar – acidity brightens flavors.

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – emulsifies and adds tang.

  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup – balances acidity with sweetness.

  • Salt and pepper to taste – enhances all flavors.

Pro Tip: Choose ripe, firm vegetables for the best texture. Organic greens often taste fresher and more vibrant.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold water. Slice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into thin, even pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the avocado. The uniformity ensures a visually appealing salad and even flavor distribution.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and avocado. Sprinkle feta cheese and nuts on top if using. The layering technique ensures every bite has a mix of textures and flavors.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning for balance. The science behind whisking: the mustard stabilizes the oil and vinegar emulsion, preventing separation and creating a smooth coating for vegetables.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to ensure each piece is lightly coated. Serve immediately to maintain crispness.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Red and Green Salad

How do I keep the salad fresh longer?

Store un-dressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add dressing only before serving.

Can I make it vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Omit feta or replace it with plant-based cheese alternatives. Walnuts or pecans provide extra richness.

What if I want a crunchier salad?

Add roasted chickpeas or toasted seeds. For festive flair, pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries create both color contrast and texture.

Best Ways to Serve

  • Holiday Buffet: Pair with roasted turkey or baked ham for a festive spread.

  • Weeknight Dinner: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light, balanced meal.

  • Gourmet Parties: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 14g (healthy fats from avocado and olive oil)

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Vitamin A: 120% DV

  • Vitamin C: 95% DV

  • Calcium: 8% DV

  • Iron: 10% DV

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for 1–2 days. Avoid dressing until ready to serve.

  • Freezing: Not recommended for fresh salad greens; freeze only prepared dressings.

  • Reheating: Serve cold; salad is best eaten fresh for optimal texture.

FAQs About Red and Green Salad

Can I use other greens besides spinach and romaine?

Absolutely. Kale, arugula, or mixed baby greens work wonderfully. Mix textures for variety.

Is this salad suitable for kids?

Yes! Slice vegetables into smaller pieces and remove any strong onions for a kid-friendly version.

Can I make this salad ahead for a party?

Yes, prep veggies and store separately. Combine and dress just before serving to maintain crispness.

What dressing alternatives work well?

Balsamic vinaigrette, lemon-tahini dressing, or creamy avocado dressing. Experiment to match your holiday theme.

Variations of Red and Green Salad

  • Holiday Red and Green Salad with Nuts & Cranberries: Add dried cranberries and toasted almonds for a festive twist.

  • Gourmet Red and Green Salad with Feta & Pomegranate: Elevate with pomegranate seeds and crumbled feta.

  • Vegan Red and Green Garden Salad: Replace feta with cashew cheese and add roasted chickpeas.

  • Simple Weeknight Salad: Use a quick olive oil and lemon dressing with just greens, tomatoes, and cucumber.

Conclusion

The Red and Green Salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich dish that elevates any meal. Its versatility makes it perfect for holidays, weeknights, or elegant dinner parties. Bring a touch of festive color and freshness to your table and enjoy a salad that everyone will love.

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