Winter Field Salad with Walnuts and Orange Segments

Name: Winter Field Salad with Walnuts and Orange Segments
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup orange segments, peeled; 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

This vibrant Winter Field Salad is a delightful mix of fresh greens, crunchy walnuts, and juicy orange segments, perfect for brightening up your winter meals.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:49:51.437Z

This salad is a celebration of winter flavors, combining the earthiness of walnuts with the bright acidity of oranges. It's not just a salad; it's a refreshing experience on a chilly day!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        A refreshing burst of citrus to brighten winter meals
Crunchy walnuts add texture and healthy fats
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion

      

The Benefits of Fresh Greens in Winter

During the colder months, it can be challenging to find fresh produce that provides essential nutrients. This Winter Field Salad is a perfect solution, showcasing a variety of mixed greens that are not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins A, C, and K. Incorporating fresh greens into your winter meals ensures you are getting the necessary nutrients to support your immune system during flu season.

Mixed greens are versatile and can be found in many varieties, each offering different flavors and textures. From peppery arugula to sweet baby spinach, this salad allows you to experiment with different greens or use what you have on hand. The crispness of the greens complements the juicy orange segments and crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful medley of flavors.

Pairing Flavors for a Balanced Salad

The combination of citrus and nuts in this salad is not just delicious; it's also a fantastic way to balance flavors and textures. The sweet and tangy orange segments provide a refreshing contrast to the earthy, rich flavor of toasted walnuts. This interplay of flavors enhances the overall eating experience, making the salad a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.

Adding feta cheese to the mix introduces a creamy component that ties all the flavors together. Its salty tang perfectly complements the sweetness of the oranges, while also providing a good source of protein and calcium. Together, these ingredients create a well-rounded dish that is both nutritious and indulgent.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup orange segments, peeled
1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with dressing just before serving.

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange segments, walnuts, red onion, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and zesty winter salad!

Storage Tips for Your Salad

If you have leftover salad, store the components separately to maintain freshness. Mixed greens can wilt quickly when dressed, so keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Store the dressing in a separate jar, and it can last for up to a week, ready to be drizzled over your next salad or used as a marinade.

For the best flavor and texture, consume the salad within a day of preparation. If you anticipate leftovers, consider only mixing the greens with the other ingredients that hold up well, like walnuts and feta, and dress them just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Winter Field Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. The addition of protein elevates it into a hearty dish that can satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. You can also serve it alongside a warm soup or crusty bread for a cozy winter dinner.

For a festive touch, consider adding pomegranate seeds or sliced apples for added color and sweetness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces additional layers of flavor that will impress your guests during holiday gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to keep the greens fresh. You can prepare the dressing in advance.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

Pecans or almonds work well as alternatives to walnuts.

→ Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly, especially if you omit the feta cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be great additions for more protein.