Save A festive, vibrant salad shaped like a holiday tree, featuring tangy feta, sweet cranberries, crunchy nuts, and fresh herbs—perfect as a centerpiece dip for celebrations.
This salad was a hit at our family Christmas party and made a great centerpiece that everyone loved to nibble on.
Ingredients
- Base Salad: 2 cups baby spinach, finely chopped, 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, 1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped, 1 small English cucumber, diced, 1/2 cup scallions, thinly sliced
- Toppings: 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped, 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)
- Dressing: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish & Serving: Fresh rosemary sprigs (for the tree trunk and decoration), Assorted crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks, for dipping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, parsley, dill, cucumber, and scallions.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3:
- Pour the dressing over the chopped greens and toss gently to combine.
- Step 4:
- On a large serving platter, shape the salad mixture into a large triangle to resemble a holiday tree.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the tree to mimic snow.
- Step 6:
- Decorate with dried cranberries, toasted nuts, and pomegranate seeds for ornaments.
- Step 7:
- Place rosemary sprigs at the base to create a tree trunk and add a festive touch.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Save This salad brings the family together every holiday, sparking joy and conversation as we gather around the festive tree.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Small bowl (for dressing), Whisk, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese) and tree nuts (pecans or walnuts). Use nut-free toppings if needed for allergies. Gluten-free if served with gluten-free crackers&check all ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 160, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 5 g per serving
Save Enjoy this vibrant tree dip salad as a refreshing appetizer that delights eyes and taste buds alike.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use different nuts in this salad?
Yes, pecans or walnuts work well, but you can substitute with any preferred toasted nuts for added crunch and flavor.
- → Is there a vegan alternative for the feta cheese?
Vegan feta substitutes can be used along with maple syrup instead of honey to maintain the intended flavors and texture.
- → How should the salad be served for the best presentation?
Shape the salad mixture into a large triangle resembling a holiday tree, then decorate with toppings and use rosemary sprigs for the trunk to create a festive look.
- → What dressing complements the greens and toppings?
A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper enhances the fresh herbs and toppings.
- → Can this dish accommodate gluten-free diets?
Yes, by serving it with gluten-free crackers or vegetables, it fits well within a gluten-free eating plan.