Print

Amazing 15-Minute Thanksgiving Salad Everyone Loves Recipe

4.5 from 132 reviews

A vibrant and festive Thanksgiving salad combining fresh mixed greens with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, creamy feta cheese, and crisp apple slices, all dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect as a refreshing starter or side dish for your holiday meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 6 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions

  1. Prepare Greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to ensure the salad does not become soggy.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, toss the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced apple with the mixed greens to evenly distribute all components.
  3. Add Dressing: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate greens or apple slices.
  4. Serve: Immediately transfer the salad to serving plates or bowls to enjoy the freshest flavors and optimal texture.

Notes

  • Use a variety of mixed greens such as baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for more flavor and texture.
  • Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
  • For a vegan version, replace feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Prepare the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
  • If you want a sweeter touch, drizzle a little honey mixed into the balsamic vinaigrette.

Keywords: Thanksgiving salad, mixed greens salad, quick salad recipe, festive salad, apple salad, pecan salad, feta cheese salad