Overhead shot of a vibrant salad in a white bowl, featuring kale, diced apples, roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans. A silver fork rests in the salad. A half pomegranate is visible on the right.

EASY Winter Salad Recipe: Vibrant, Healthy, & Perfect for the Holidays

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Looking for a dazzling salad to shine on your holiday table? This EASY Winter Salad packs vibrant flavors, cozy seasonal ingredients, and beautiful color in one bowl. With kale, roasted butternut squash, sweet apples, juicy pomegranate, crunchy pecans, and tangy feta, it’s the ideal nutritious side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering. Pair it with a homemade vinaigrette and you’ve got a showstopper—plus it’s simple enough for busy weeknights too!

Why You’ll Love This Winter Salad

There’s something spectacular about seasonal salads. They feel festive and nourishing—especially with hearty veggies and fruits that are beautiful, filling, and loaded with vitamins. Our winter salad is not just pretty enough for special occasions, it’s appetizing enough for the pickiest eaters thanks to bold textures and flavors. Even salad skeptics will be back for seconds!

Ingredient Spotlight

The secret to this salad’s crave-worthy bite lies in its thoughtful mix of seasonal produce:

  • Kale: Sturdy and nutrient-dense, kale provides a dark green base that holds up to dressing, toppings, and transport. Learn how to massage kale for ultimate tenderness and taste in our step-by-step guide: How to Massage Kale.
  • Roasted Butternut Squash: Roasting brings out its natural sweetness while caramelizing edges for flavor and contrast. We recommend prepping squash in advance for easy assembly; follow our detailed roast tips here: Roasted Butternut Squash.
  • Apple: Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add crispness and a subtle sweet-tart punch.
  • Pomegranate Seeds: Bursts of juicy color that look gorgeous and taste even better.
  • Pecans: Raw or candied pecans offer delicious nutty crunch.
  • Feta Cheese: The creamy, tangy flavor balances fruity and sweet notes beautifully.
  • Vinaigrette: A good drizzle brings everything together—try balsamic or a classic olive oil-red wine vinegar mix.

Step-by-Step Instruction

A hand squeezes a bright yellow lemon half over a white bowl filled with fresh, crinkled green kale on a light surface.
Squeezing fresh lemon over crisp, green kale is the perfect way to bring out its natural flavors and add a burst of brightness to any meal. This simple step elevates healthy eating.

1. Prepare the Kale

Wash and dry kale, then chop finely. Add to a large serving bowl.
Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Massage for 2 minutes until kale turns deep green and softens (see our guide above for technique).

2. Cook the Squash

Dice squash into ½-inch pieces. Toss with a swirl of olive oil and roast at 425°F for 20 minutes or until golden (use the guide linked above for perfect results).

3. Assemble the Salad

Add warmed roasted butternut squash to the kale. Sprinkle with diced apple and fresh pomegranate seeds. Top with pecans and crumbled feta.

4. Finish with Vinaigrette

Drizzle generously with chosen vinaigrette before tossing lightly. Serve promptly, or chill and serve within several hours.

Winter Salad Ideas & Variations

Adapt this salad to suit your taste or the occasion! Try these twists for a personalized touch:

  • Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, or pine nuts.
  • Fruits: Replace apple with fresh pear, or use dried cranberries instead of pomegranate.
  • Squash: Sub sweet potato or omit squash for a lighter bowl.
  • Cheese: Try goat cheese or blue cheese—or skip entirely for vegan guests.
  • Add-ins: Sliced red onion, avocado, quinoa, or chickpeas. Mix up your greens with baby spinach or arugula.

Making It a Meal

Turn this winter salad into a complete meal by adding protein such as grilled chicken, turkey, or baked tofu. You can also bulk it up with grains like cooked quinoa for extra heartiness.

A colorful kale salad in a white bowl, topped with diced butternut squash, red apples, pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and chopped nuts. A fork and a halved pomegranate are on the white surface.
Savor the flavors of autumn with this vibrant and wholesome kale, squash, and pomegranate salad. It’s a delightful blend of fresh greens, sweet fruit, and savory ingredients, perfect for any meal.

Pro Tips for the BEST Winter Salad

  • Massage the kale: Tenderizing kale is key for flavor and pleasant texture.
  • Roast veggies ahead: Roasted squash can be prepped 1-2 days before and chilled.
  • Add vinaigrette just before serving: This keeps everything crisp, vibrant, and prevents sogginess.
  • Balance flavors: Use sweet, creamy, tart, and crunchy elements for extra “wow.”

More Seasonal Salad Inspiration

If you crave new ways to celebrate cold-weather ingredients, explore these reader favorites:

  • Sweet Potato Salad with Balsamic Glaze
  • Fresh Pear Salad with Pomegranate
  • Apple Cranberry Spinach Salad
  • Mandarin Orange Salad with Cranberries
  • Easy Fall Salad with Maple Dijon

Find all recipes on our Recipe Index for healthy, quick, and flavor-packed ideas.

Nutrition Info

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients and serving size. Reach out for allergen swaps, vegan adjustments, or serving tips for your holiday menu!

Get ready to serve up flavor, color, and health with this gorgeous winter salad. Whether for a festive celebration or cozy dinner at home, it’s sure to become a new seasonal staple—so pin and save for all your winter occasions.

Did you make this Winter Salad? Snap a photo and share in the comments below!

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