Next Up

20 Christmas Salad Recipes Fit for a Holiday Celebration

Updated on November 20, 2023

How do you make your special dinner merry and bright? Deck your table with one of these festive sides.

1 / 20
Photo: Kate Mathis

Our Most-Festive Salad Ideas

There are so many delicious dishes to choose from when the holidays roll around: appetizers, impressive roasts and showstopping hams and, of course, all the mouthwatering sides that go along with them. But there’s one dish that every feast needs: a bountiful salad. Whether you choose one that’s chock-full of seasonal ingredients or something that can double as an edible centerpiece, a salad is always a welcome addition to any Christmas dinner. There are many to choose from, like this one that’s beautiful, impressive and easy to prepare. It’s reminiscent of a holiday wreath, with a center well of citrusy Champagne-vinegar dressing. The salad itself is studded with pomegranate seeds, feta, navel orange segments and quick-candied pecans, which add welcome crunch and spice, on a bed of frisée, peppery arugula and radicchio.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

2 / 20
Photo: Chantell Quernemoen

Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries & Dijon Dressing

For a crunchy dish that pairs well with everything, toss shaved brussels sprouts with toasted hazelnuts, cranberries and a tangy Dijon dressing.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

3 / 20
Photo: Kate Mathis

Christmas Pasta Salad

As festive as it is delicious, this Christmas pasta salad brings together the green, red and white of the holiday in edible form. Green comes from a bright broccoli-based pesto, and more blanched broccoli. Red is thanks to roasted red peppers. White comes from tiny mozzarella balls. Toss it all with mezze rigatoni and delight in the hidden vegetables.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

4 / 20
Photo: Patrick Wymore ©

Chopped Romaine and Radicchio Salad

Crushed pita chips stand in for croutons in Giada's quick, easy salad from Giada's Holiday Handbook. The dressing relies on Parmesan, whole-grain mustard, Champagne vinegar, olive oil and salt. The salad itself is a basil-studded blend of romaine, radicchio, cucumber and avocado.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

Next Up

We Recommend