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 field greens; 1 cup orange segments; 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating

A refreshing and vibrant salad perfect for winter gatherings, featuring crunchy walnuts and sweet orange segments.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-04T22:43:50.859Z

This Winter Field Salad combines the crunch of walnuts with the sweetness of fresh orange segments, creating a delightful contrast that brightens up any winter meal. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh flavors that brighten up winter meals
Crunchy walnuts for added texture and healthy fats
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion

      

The Benefits of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients in your winter field salad not only enhances the flavors but also provides numerous health benefits. Mixed field greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, which play a crucial role in supporting your immune system during the colder months. The vibrant orange segments are an excellent source of vitamin C, helping to fight off winter colds and adding a burst of natural sweetness to the dish.

Walnuts are another star ingredient in this salad, offering a satisfying crunch along with healthy fats that promote heart health. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and support brain health. Incorporating these wholesome ingredients into your meals can help you feel energized and nourished throughout the winter season.

Versatility of Winter Salads

Winter salads are incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite ingredients based on what you have on hand. While this recipe features walnuts and oranges, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds or pecans, and swap in seasonal fruits such as pomegranate or grapefruit for a delightful twist. The key is to balance flavors and textures to create a satisfying dish.

You can also customize the dressing to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of buttermilk. Alternatively, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or basil can elevate the flavor profile even further. The possibilities are endless, making this salad a staple for winter gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Perfect Pairings

This winter field salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making it an ideal side for holiday feasts or cozy family meals. Serve it alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a classic combination, or try it with grilled salmon for a healthy and satisfying option. The bright flavors of the salad complement richer dishes, adding a refreshing contrast that everyone will enjoy.

For a vegetarian option, consider serving the salad with stuffed bell peppers or a hearty vegetable stir-fry. The combination of textures and flavors will create a balanced meal that leaves you feeling satisfied. Don’t forget to offer some crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover dressing—everyone loves a good bread and salad pairing!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for a delicious winter salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider 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 prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional walnuts if desired.

Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Winter Field Salad!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, it's important to store them properly to maintain freshness. Keep the assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it's best to store the dressing separately to prevent the greens from wilting. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply toss the salad with the dressing just before serving.

For longer storage, consider keeping each ingredient separate. Store the mixed greens, nuts, and feta cheese in individual containers. This way, you can enjoy the salad components throughout the week by mixing them with other fresh ingredients or incorporating them into different meals.

Nutritional Information

This winter field salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides a good balance of macronutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The combination of greens, fruits, and nuts delivers essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, supporting overall health and well-being.

The salad is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their intake. With healthy fats from the walnuts and protein from the feta cheese, it offers satiety without compromising on taste. Incorporating such salads into your regular meal rotation can contribute to a balanced diet and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Cooking for a Crowd

If you're planning to serve this salad for a gathering, it's easy to scale up the recipe to accommodate more guests. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you need. The salad can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your friends and family during the event.

Consider serving the salad in a large bowl or platter for a beautiful presentation. You can also provide the dressing on the side, allowing guests to add as much or as little as they prefer. This not only makes for an impressive display but also caters to individual tastes and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans or almonds as a substitute if you prefer.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are gluten-free.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be excellent additions.