Christmas Apple Salad

Step into the holiday spirit with this festive wreath-shaped Christmas Apple Salad that layers peppery arugula, crisp apples, creamy goat cheese, tart pomegranate arils, and toasted pecans around a bowl of tangy balsamic dressing.

Bright, flavorful, and visually stunning on the table — this is a Christmas Recipe that not only tastes delightful but looks like a centerpiece.

Make an impression on your holiday table your guests won’t easily forget the fun presentation and the yummy salad.

Ready in about 15 minutes, this Christmas salad adds a crisp, fresh twist to your holiday spread.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Christmas Apple Salad is a festive, colorful salad perfect for holiday tables.

• Fresh ingredients: Made with baby arugula, Envy apples, goat cheese, pomegranate arils and toasted pecans.
• Flavorful dressing: Balsamic vinaigrette with honey, Dijon mustard, garlic and olive oil adds a tangy-sweet kick.
• Beautiful presentation: Arrange arugula in a wreath shape for a stunning holiday centerpiece.
• Seasonal and nutritious: Combines fresh fruit, nuts and greens for a light, wholesome dish.
• Easy to assemble: Quick prep makes it stress-free for holiday entertaining.

This salad is a vibrant, flavorful addition to any holiday spread that will impress both visually and taste-wise!

What Goes with Christmas Apple Salad

Here’s a list of dishes and drinks that go well with Christmas Apple Salad!

• Roast Turkey or Chicken: Classic and savory pairing
• Glazed Ham: Sweet and rich contrast
• Stuffing or Wild Rice Pilaf: Hearty and flavorful
• Butternut Squash Soup: Smooth and seasonal
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Green Beans: Savory and crisp
• Artisan Bread or Dinner Rolls: Soft and buttery
• Cheese Platter with Nuts: Adds richness and texture
• Cranberry Sauce or Chutney: Sweet-tart complement
• Sparkling Water with Citrus or Apple Cider: Refreshing drinks
• Mini Quiches or Savory Tarts: Elegant, bite-sized sides

These pairings create a festive and balanced holiday meal that highlights the fresh, sweet, and tangy flavors of the Christmas Apple Salad.

What Types of Apples to Use

For this recipe I recommend Envy apples.

They have a sweet, sophisticated flavor; uplifting, fresh aroma; delightfully satisfying crunch; and beautiful appearance.

Plus, the naturally white flesh that doesn’t brown as quickly as other apples, which makes it perfect for this Christmas apple salad.

Another lovely Christmas dish to serve up is a Christmas Charcuterie Wreath.

And a special thanks to EnvyApple.com for offering this recipe from The Produce Moms.

Christmas Apple Salad Ingredients

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings

Balsamic Dressing:

• honey
• Dijon mustard
• fine sea salt
• black pepper
• garlic clove
• balsamic vinegar
• extra-virgin olive oil

Salad:

• baby arugula
• Envy apples
• goat cheese
• pomegranate arils
• pecans

Apple Wreath Salad Directions

To make balsamic dressing: In small serving bowl, whisk honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic, balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Place dressing bowl in center of large board or platter. Arrange arugula around dressing bowl in wreath shape.

Place apple slices on top of arugula. Sprinkle on goat cheese, pomegranate arils and pecans.

More Christmas Recipes

Discover more Christmas recipes to inspire festive meals and delicious holiday treats.

• Classic Beef Wellington
• Christmas Pudding
• Cheesy Sourdough Herb Stuffing
• Eggless Christmas Fruit and Nut Cake
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes
• Christmas Puppy Chow
• Perfect Popovers
• Christmas Punch
• Broccoli Christmas Tree