Winter Salad

Introduction

The idea for this beautiful winter salad was born in the kitchen of Lina Vexley, who always believed that cold-weather dishes could be just as vibrant and refreshing as summer meals. One snowy evening, she sliced ripe pears, scattered ruby-red pomegranate seeds, crumbled goat cheese, and tossed everything with winter greens. The result surprised her—fresh, crisp, sweet, and tangy all at once. Her family gathered around the table, amazed by how such a simple mix of ingredients captured the warmth and magic of the season. Today, this salad remains one of Lina’s favorite recipes to brighten even the chilliest days.

How to Make Recipe

A winter salad is all about pairing crisp, cool-weather produce with rich textures and warm flavors. To get started, prepare your winter greens—spinach, arugula, or a mix of seasonal greens work beautifully. Wash and dry them thoroughly so the leaves remain crisp and the dressing clings well. Place the greens in a large serving bowl, spreading them out to create a bed for the toppings. Next, thinly slice a ripe pear. The sweetness and smooth texture of the pear contrast beautifully with the leafy greens, adding both freshness and elegance to the salad.

Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the top; they add not only a burst of color but also a bright, juicy pop with every bite. Crumble goat cheese and scatter it evenly to create a creamy counterpoint to the fruit. Add candied walnuts for crunch and a subtle caramel sweetness—these tie together the flavors and bring a warm, cozy touch that suits the winter season perfectly.

Now it’s time to make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. This dressing strikes the ideal balance between tangy, sweet, and savory. It complements the fruit and nuts without overpowering the natural flavors of the produce. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Use gentle tossing motions so the delicate pear slices and pomegranate seeds remain intact.

For added depth, you can mix in roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, or even thinly sliced fennel. Winter salads thrive on layering textures, colors, and taste. Serve the salad immediately for maximum crispness and freshness. It works beautifully as a side dish or can be topped with grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This winter salad is a vibrant, refreshing way to bring seasonal ingredients to life. With crisp greens, sweet pears, and bright pomegranate seeds, each bite delivers a balance of flavor that feels both comforting and invigorating. The creamy goat cheese and candied walnuts add richness and texture, making the dish satisfying enough for holiday gatherings or everyday meals. Inspired by the creative spirit of Lina Vexley, this recipe highlights how simple seasonal ingredients can become something extraordinary. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this winter salad brings color, warmth, and freshness to your winter table.