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; 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: FreshGlow Recipes

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

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T20:13:51.764Z

This Winter Field Salad is a delightful combination of fresh greens, crunchy walnuts, and sweet orange segments, making it a perfect addition to any winter meal. It's light yet satisfying, and the flavors come together beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp greens and juicy oranges create a refreshing flavor contrast
Nutty walnuts add a delightful crunch and richness
Perfectly light yet filling, great for winter meals

      

The Benefits of Winter Salads

Winter salads are a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet. During the colder months, many people crave heartier dishes, but a vibrant salad can provide a refreshing contrast. Ingredients like citrus fruits, nuts, and sturdy greens are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and nutrients. This Winter Field Salad with Walnuts and Orange Segments takes advantage of these seasonal offerings, ensuring you're nourished even in the chillier months.

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system during flu season. The combination of fresh greens and nuts also aids in digestion and provides essential fatty acids. This salad not only tastes great but also supports your overall health, making it a perfect addition to winter gatherings.

Pairing Suggestions

This Winter Field Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile choice for your winter gatherings. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon. The bright flavors of the salad complement the richness of these proteins, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, this salad is an excellent accompaniment to a warm quiche or a savory grain bowl. The crunch of the walnuts and the zest of the orange segments will elevate these dishes, ensuring that your meal is both satisfying and memorable.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, consider storing the components separately to maintain freshness. Mixed greens can wilt quickly, so keep them in a separate container. The orange segments and walnuts can be stored together, while the dressing can be kept in a small jar. Just combine everything shortly before serving for maximum flavor and texture.

This salad also makes for a fantastic lunch option. Pack it in a mason jar with the dressing on the bottom and the greens on top. When you're ready to eat, simply shake the jar to mix everything together. It's a convenient and healthy choice that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup orange segments
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

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

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

Make the Dressing

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

Dress the Salad

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

Nutritional Information

This Winter Field Salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals, primarily from the mixed greens and orange segments. The nuts contribute healthy fats and protein, making this salad a balanced choice that can serve as a light main dish or a side.

The presence of feta cheese adds a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the oranges. While cheese does add calories, it also brings calcium and protein to the dish. Overall, this salad is a nutrient-dense option that fits well within a healthy eating plan.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this Winter Field Salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds, or add sliced apples for an extra layer of sweetness.

You can also experiment with different cheeses; goat cheese or blue cheese could add a unique twist. If you're looking for more protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a complete meal. The possibilities are endless!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

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

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

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

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for a more filling meal.