Bright, festive, and packed with flavor, this Christmas Salad is a holiday favorite that brings both color and crunch to your table. With ruby-red pomegranate seeds, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts all nestled over fresh arugula, it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory. A light balsamic glaze ties it all together, making it the salad even salad-haters will reach for.


Perfect for your holiday spread or any winter dinner, this salad not only looks like Christmas in a bowl, but also tastes like a celebration. The burst of pomegranate and the creaminess of cheese make every bite a surprise of textures. And the best part? It’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.
What Greens Work Best for a Christmas Salad?
While arugula adds a peppery bite and beautiful contrast, you can also use a mix of baby spinach and spring greens. The key is to pick leafy greens that are sturdy enough to hold up against juicy pomegranate seeds and heavier toppings like nuts and cheese.
Ingredients for the Christmas Salad
Arugula
The peppery base that gives the salad its bold flavor and hearty texture.
Pomegranate Seeds
Juicy, tart, and festive, these add both color and a pleasant pop in every bite.
Goat Cheese (or Feta)
Creamy, slightly tangy cheese that balances out the sweetness of the fruit and richness of the nuts.
Walnuts
Toasted or raw, they bring crunch and earthiness, tying the dish together.
Balsamic Glaze
A sweet, tangy drizzle that enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
Olive Oil & Salt
A quick toss in quality olive oil and a pinch of sea salt makes the greens sing.
How To Make the Christmas Salad
Step 1: Prep the Greens
Rinse and dry the arugula (or greens of choice) thoroughly. Place in a large salad bowl or serving platter.
Step 2: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds generously over the greens. Crumble goat cheese evenly across the top. Add the walnuts last for a gorgeous visual contrast and satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Drizzle and Toss Lightly
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. If using olive oil and salt, add those just before serving. Gently toss or serve layered for a dramatic holiday presentation.

Serving and Storing Your Christmas Salad
Serve this salad immediately after assembling to keep the greens crisp and vibrant. If preparing ahead, store ingredients separately and combine just before serving. Leftovers can be stored for a day in the fridge, though the arugula may wilt slightly.
What to Serve With Christmas Salad?
Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes
These earthy, caramelized potatoes add warmth and depth to your holiday table. Try them here
Creamy Cranberry Salad
Another festive dish that complements the tang of the Christmas Salad. View it here
Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy
A cozy, savory pairing to round out a hearty meal. Grab the recipe
Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
This indulgent side adds cheesy comfort to any special dinner. Find it here
Cheeseburger Soup
For a cozy twist, serve this creamy soup alongside. Check it out
Want More Salad Ideas That Wow?
If you’re loving this Christmas Salad, here are more recipes that bring big flavor to your bowl:
- California Spaghetti Salad for a pasta twist with crunchy veggies.
- Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad with creamy herb-packed dressing.
- Tex Mex Salad for a zesty, colorful crowd-pleaser.
- Creamy Crab Pasta Salad that blends seafood with freshness.
- Cheesecake Fruit Salad for when your salad is also dessert.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this festive salad to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to pull out when the holidays roll around again.
Tried it with candied pecans? Or swapped in blue cheese? I’d love to hear your twists—drop them in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next holiday favorite could be just a scroll away.
Christmas Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Wow your holiday guests with this vibrant Christmas Salad—a festive blend of peppery arugula, juicy pomegranate seeds, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together with a sweet balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors, and it looks just as stunning as it tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick holiday side, easy recipe to balance your table, or healthy snack to refresh your dinner ideas, this salad delivers. Light, elegant, and super simple to assemble, it’s a showstopper that fits right into any holiday spread or winter gathering.
Ingredients
6 cups arugula
1 cup pomegranate seeds
3 oz goat cheese, crumbled
½ cup walnuts
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
1 tbsp olive oil
pinch sea salt
Instructions
1. Rinse and dry arugula thoroughly and place it in a large serving bowl.
2. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds evenly over the greens.
3. Crumble goat cheese on top.
4. Add walnuts across the surface for crunch and color.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze and olive oil on top.
6. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
7. Toss lightly or leave layered and serve immediately.
Notes
Toast the walnuts for extra flavor and crunch.
Use feta as a substitute if goat cheese isn’t your favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: holiday salad, christmas salad, arugula pomegranate salad, easy salad, festive salad
