14+ Best Christmas Dinner Salad Recipe Experience Culinary Bliss Now!
Published on: Apr 24, 2024
When it comes to holiday dinners, the star of the show is often the main course. However, a well-crafted salad can bring a burst of flavor and color to your Christmas dinner table. In fact, a good salad can even steal the spotlight from the traditional turkey or ham. So, if you're looking for a show-stopping salad to add to your Christmas dinner menu, we've got you covered. Our best Christmas dinner salad recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves, Sun Dried
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to enjoy your favorite beer can chicken, look no further than this balsamic chicken dinner salad recipe. This salad combines the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar and olive oil with the juicy and tender chicken, creating a mouth-watering dish that will leave you satisfied and guilt-free.
The key to this recipe is the marinade. A simple mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a tangy and flavorful coating for the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but for even more flavor, marinate it overnight. When you're ready to cook, simply place the chicken on a beer can and grill until it's crispy and golden brown on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for a refreshing and crisp base. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it and adding it to the salad. Drizzle with a little more balsamic dressing and top with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy finish.
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Barbecue Chicken Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Black Beans, Barbeque Sauce, Lettuce
If you're a fan of barbecue chicken, this dinner salad recipe is a must-try. The combination of smoky and sweet flavors from the barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy beer can chicken. Plus, this salad is loaded with healthy veggies and topped with a creamy avocado dressing for a satisfying and guilt-free meal.
To make this recipe, start by rubbing your chicken with a homemade barbecue spice rub and letting it marinate for at least an hour. Then, place it on a beer can and grill until it's cooked through. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Toss together romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, and red onion for a filling and flavorful base.
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it and placing it on top of the salad. Drizzle with a homemade avocado dressing made with fresh avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy finish. Serve with some tortilla chips on the side for a little extra crunch.
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Salmon and Fennel Spring Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Salmon Filet, Sea Salt, Cracked Black Pepper, Olive
If you want to switch things up from traditional chicken, this salmon and fennel spring dinner salad is a delicious alternative. The combination of fresh salmon, crunchy fennel, and tangy lemon dressing makes for a light and refreshing meal that's perfect for warmer weather.
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Grill until it's cooked through and flaky. While the salmon is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Toss together mixed greens, thinly sliced fennel, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes for a crisp and flavorful base.
Once the salmon is done, let it rest for a few minutes before flaking it and adding it to the salad. Drizzle with a simple lemon dressing made with lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey for a bright and tangy finish. Top with some shaved Parmesan cheese for a little extra flavor and serve immediately.
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Caprese Dinner Salad with Grilled Chicken and Pesto...
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Sea Salt, Olive
This caprese dinner salad is a twist on the classic Italian salad, incorporating grilled chicken and a homemade pesto dressing for a more filling and flavorful meal. This salad is perfect for summer when tomatoes are at their peak, and the fresh basil in the pesto adds a burst of flavor.
Start by marinating your chicken in a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Italian herbs. Grill until it's cooked through and let it rest before slicing. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and avocado for a colorful and flavorful base.
For the pesto dressing, blend together fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Drizzle over the salad and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with some more fresh basil leaves for a beautiful and flavorful finish.
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Hearty Pasta Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Olive Oil, White Wine Vinegar, Kosher
If you're looking for a more filling and hearty dinner salad, this recipe is for you. The combination of tender beer can chicken, hearty pasta, and flavorful veggies makes for a satisfying and delicious meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight.
Start by grilling your chicken on a beer can until it's crispy and golden brown. Let it rest before slicing. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions and toss it with fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and olives.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian herbs. Toss the dressing with the pasta and veggies, then top with the sliced chicken. Serve immediately for a filling and flavorful dinner.
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Citrus Rubbed Chicken Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Grated Lemon Peel, Knorr
This citrus rubbed chicken dinner salad is bursting with flavor and healthy ingredients. The combination of citrus flavors from the marinade and dressing, along with the crunch from the veggies, makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Start by rubbing your chicken with a mixture of orange and lime zest, garlic, and Italian herbs. Grill until it's cooked through and let it rest before slicing. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and avocado for a colorful and crunchy base.
For the dressing, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, honey, and olive oil. Drizzle over the salad and top with the sliced chicken. Serve immediately for a delicious and healthy dinner option.
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Chicken, Tomato & Cucumber Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chicken Breast Tenders, Salt And Ground
This chicken, tomato, and cucumber dinner salad is perfect for a quick and easy meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy dressing makes for a delicious and satisfying dinner option.
Start by seasoning your chicken with garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs. Grill until it's cooked through and let it rest before slicing. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for a simple and flavorful base.
For the dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Drizzle over the salad and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with some fresh herbs for a beautiful and flavorful finish.
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Balsamic Chicken Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves, Sun Dried
If you're looking for a healthy and flavorful dinner option, this balsamic chicken dinner salad is the perfect choice. With tender grilled chicken, fresh greens, and a tangy balsamic dressing, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make!
To start, marinate your chicken in a delicious balsamic marinade that adds a rich and savory flavor to the meat. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your salad greens and toppings. You can use a variety of fresh vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, to add color and nutrients to your salad.
Next, grill the marinated chicken until it's fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. Slice the chicken into strips and place it on top of your salad. Drizzle on some extra balsamic dressing for added flavor, and enjoy a satisfying and healthy dinner that's ready in no time.
For an extra kick of flavor, you can also add some crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts to your salad. These ingredients add a nice contrast to the tangy balsamic dressing and bring a touch of richness to the dish. This balsamic chicken dinner salad is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or even for entertaining guests.
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Barbecue Chicken Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Black Beans, Barbeque Sauce, Lettuce
If you're a fan of barbecue flavors, you'll love this delicious barbecue chicken dinner salad. It's a hearty and filling meal that's perfect for those who love a little bit of sweetness and spice in their food. The combination of tender grilled chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and fresh vegetables makes this salad a winner.
To make this salad, start by marinating your chicken in a homemade barbecue sauce. You can use your favorite store-bought sauce, but making it from scratch gives you more control over the flavors and ingredients. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your salad greens and toppings.
Grill the chicken until it's fully cooked and has a nice caramelized crust. Slice it into strips and place it on top of your salad. Add your favorite toppings, such as corn, avocado, and crispy bacon. These ingredients add a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
For the dressing, you can use a simple mix of barbecue sauce and ranch dressing, or you can make a homemade honey mustard dressing for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Whichever option you choose, this barbecue chicken dinner salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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Salmon and Fennel Spring Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Salmon Filet, Sea Salt, Cracked Black Pepper, Olive
This spring-inspired dinner salad combines the rich and flavorful taste of salmon with the delicate and refreshing flavor of fennel. It's a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for warmer weather. The combination of protein-rich salmon and fresh vegetables makes this salad a nutritious and delicious choice for dinner.
To make this salad, start by marinating your salmon in a citrus and herb marinade. While the salmon is marinating, prepare your salad greens and toppings. You can use a mix of arugula, spinach, and radicchio for a variety of textures and flavors.
Grill the salmon until it's fully cooked and has a nice crispy exterior. Slice it into strips and place it on top of your salad. Add some thinly sliced fennel for a refreshing crunch and a hint of anise flavor. Top it off with a lemon vinaigrette for a bright and zesty dressing that ties all the flavors together.
This salmon and fennel spring dinner salad is a perfect choice for a light and healthy dinner. It's also a great option for those who are trying to incorporate more seafood into their diet. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of spring flavors in every bite.
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Caprese Dinner Salad with Grilled Chicken and Pesto...
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Sea Salt, Olive
This caprese dinner salad is a twist on the classic Italian appetizer. It combines the fresh and juicy flavors of tomatoes and mozzarella with the savory and herbaceous taste of pesto. And with the addition of grilled chicken, this salad becomes a satisfying and filling meal.
To make this salad, start by marinating your chicken in a balsamic and herb marinade. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your salad greens and toppings. You can use a mix of baby spinach, romaine lettuce, and arugula for a variety of textures and flavors.
Grill the chicken until it's fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. Slice it into strips and place it on top of your salad. Add fresh slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese for a classic caprese combination. Drizzle on some homemade pesto for a burst of herbaceous and garlicky flavors.
This caprese dinner salad is perfect for a light and flavorful dinner. It's also a great option for those who are looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Enjoy this Italian-inspired dish and savor the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean.
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Hearty Pasta Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Rotini Pasta, Olive Oil, White Wine Vinegar, Kosher
If you're in the mood for a heartier and more filling dinner option, this pasta dinner salad is the perfect choice. It combines the comforting and satisfying taste of pasta with fresh and crunchy vegetables for a well-rounded meal. And with the addition of grilled chicken, this salad becomes a complete and balanced dinner.
To make this salad, start by cooking your favorite type of pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare your salad greens and toppings. You can use a mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for a variety of flavors and textures.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and mix it with your salad greens and toppings. Grill the chicken until it's fully cooked and slice it into strips. Add the chicken on top of the pasta salad and drizzle on a simple vinaigrette for a light and tangy dressing.
This hearty pasta dinner salad is perfect for those who are looking for a more substantial dinner option. It's also a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken and vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
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Citrus Rubbed Chicken Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Grated Lemon Peel, Knorr
This citrus rubbed chicken dinner salad is bursting with fresh and bright flavors. The combination of tender and juicy chicken with tangy citrus fruits and sweet and crunchy vegetables makes this salad a delicious and healthy choice for dinner. And with the addition of a homemade orange vinaigrette, this salad is a true winner.
To make this salad, start by marinating your chicken in a citrus and herb marinade for at least an hour. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your salad greens and toppings. You can use a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and mandarin oranges for a variety of textures and flavors.
Grill the chicken until it's fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. Slice it into strips and place it on top of your salad. Add some sliced avocado and toasted almonds for healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. Drizzle on the orange vinaigrette for a burst of citrusy and tangy flavors.
This citrus rubbed chicken dinner salad is perfect for a light and refreshing dinner. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken and citrus fruits. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish and savor the bright and zesty flavors of citrus.
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Chicken, Tomato & Cucumber Dinner Salad
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chicken Breast Tenders, Salt And Ground
This chicken, tomato, and cucumber dinner salad is a simple and delicious option for a quick and easy dinner. It's a no-fuss dish that's perfect for those busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. And with the addition of a honey mustard dressing, this salad is a flavorful and satisfying meal.
To make this salad, start by marinating your chicken in a lemon and herb marinade. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your salad greens and toppings. You can use a mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a variety of flavors and textures.
Grill the chicken until it's fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. Slice it into strips and place it on top of your salad. Add some thinly sliced red onions and crumbled feta cheese for a tangy and salty contrast. Drizzle on the honey mustard dressing for a sweet and tangy dressing that brings all the flavors together.
This chicken, tomato, and cucumber dinner salad is perfect for those nights when you need a quick and easy meal. It's also a great way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious and healthy dinner in no time.
The Perfect Combination of Sweet and Savory
One of the keys to a successful Christmas dinner salad is finding the perfect balance of flavors. And that's exactly what our best Christmas dinner salad recipe offers. The combination of fresh, crisp greens with sweet and tangy toppings creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, the addition of salty nuts and creamy cheese takes this salad to the next level.
Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients
To make the best Christmas dinner salad, it's important to use the freshest ingredients. Not only does this ensure optimal flavor, but it also adds a festive touch to your salad. For our recipe, we recommend using seasonal fruits and vegetables such as cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and roasted winter squash. These ingredients not only add a pop of color to your salad, but they also provide a variety of textures and flavors.
A Dressing That Ties It All Together
No salad is complete without a delicious dressing, and our best Christmas dinner salad recipe features a balsamic vinaigrette that perfectly complements the flavors of the salad. The sweet and tangy dressing is made with honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar, giving it just the right amount of sweetness and acidity. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your holiday feast.
A Salad That Fits Any Dietary Restrictions
With so many dietary restrictions these days, it can be challenging to find a dish that everyone at your Christmas dinner can enjoy. But our best Christmas dinner salad recipe is gluten-free, vegetarian, and can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese. This makes it the perfect side dish to add to your holiday menu, and you can rest assured that all your guests will be able to indulge in this delicious salad.
Impress Your Guests with Our Best Christmas Dinner Salad Recipe
If you want to take your Christmas dinner to the next level, our best Christmas dinner salad recipe is a must-try. With its perfect balance of flavors, fresh ingredients, and easy customization for dietary restrictions, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not give it a try and see for yourself? Your taste buds will thank you.