Winter Salad With Citrus Ginger Dressing: Bright, Nourishing, and Perfect for the Holidays

Last Updated on November 18, 2025 by Chef Josie

Winter cooking often leans toward warm, cozy, and indulgent dishes, but what truly elevates a holiday table is a fresh, vibrant salad that balances the richness around it. This Winter Salad With Citrus Ginger Dressing is exactly that: crisp greens, juicy citrus, ruby pomegranate arils, quinoa for heartiness, and a velvety, zesty dressing infused with ginger, citrus, and a touch of sweetness.

It’s refreshing yet substantial, elegant yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re planning Christmas dinner side dishes, building a lineup of holiday salad recipes, or searching for a standout dish for festive gatherings, this winter salad delivers a burst of flavor with every bite.

I first made this salad for a December dinner party where the menu was filled with heavy mains, braised beef, potatoes, and rolls. This salad instantly became the star of the table. Guests raved about the bright citrus, the crunch of pomegranate, and the warmth of fresh ginger in the dressing. Since then, it has become one of my top-requested winter salad recipes.

This is the kind of salad that feels both wholesome and celebratory. It’s light but satisfying, nutritious but indulgent enough for special occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Winter Salad With Citrus Ginger Dressing

• A beautiful balance of sweet, tangy, and warmly spiced flavors
• Packed with winter produce like oranges and pomegranate
• The citrus-ginger dressing is bright, creamy, and unforgettable
• Works as a side dish or a full meal with added protein
• Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s, or weekday dinners
• Naturally gluten-free and customizable
• Looks stunning on any holiday table, ideal for Christmas salad ideas and holiday salads Christmas

Ingredients for Winter Salad With Citrus Ginger Dressing

For the Salad

Mixed Greens: A blend of spring mix or winter lettuces adds freshness and color.

Quinoa: Provides protein and texture, making the salad hearty and nourishing.

Mandarin Oranges or Clementines: Bring sweetness and brightness to contrast the greens.

Pomegranate Arils: Offer crunch and a pop of tart flavor, plus gorgeous holiday color.

Red Onion: Adds sharpness and balance; finely diced for subtleness.

Fresh Mint (optional): Adds fragrance and a cool finish.

For the Citrus Ginger Dressing

• Orange juice
• Lemon juice
• Fresh grated ginger
• Honey or maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

The dressing is creamy, citrusy, and slightly spicy from the ginger, a true winter flavor profile.

How to Make Winter Salad With Citrus Ginger Dressing

1. Cook the Quinoa

Rinse quinoa well under water to remove bitterness. Cook according to package directions, fluff with a fork, and allow it to cool before adding to the salad.

2. Prepare the Citrus

Peel mandarin oranges and slice into rounds or segments. This creates a beautiful presentation.

3. Build the Salad Base

Add mixed greens to a large bowl, followed by cooled quinoa, pomegranate arils, red onion, and mint.

4. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together citrus juices, grated ginger, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

5. Dress the Salad

Drizzle dressing generously over the salad just before serving.

6. Toss and Serve

Toss gently to evenly coat everything in the citrus-ginger dressing.

Notes & Top Tips

• Let quinoa cool fully or it will wilt the greens.
• Add dressing only when ready to serve to keep textures crisp.
• Adjust ginger according to preference; add more for extra warmth.
• If using oranges instead of mandarins, segment them for best texture.
• Add toasted almonds or pistachios for extra crunch.
• For a creamier dressing, whisk in 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Serve as a refreshing holiday side next to turkey, ham, or roast beef.
• Add grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas to turn it into a full meal.
• Replace quinoa with farro or couscous for a heartier salad.
• Add avocado slices for richness.
• For a more fruit-forward version, add pears or apples, perfect for Christmas fruit salad lovers.
• For a festive upgrade, top with candied pecans or goat cheese.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store salad ingredients separately from dressing for up to 2 days.
• Dressing keeps refrigerated for up to 1 week.
• Toss salad only right before serving for optimal freshness.
• If prepared with dressing, consume within 4–6 hours to maintain texture.

Why You’ll Make Them Again

This Winter Salad With Citrus Ginger Dressing is the perfect balance of brightness, texture, and seasonal flavor. It brings a refreshing contrast to holiday meals and makes an elegant addition to any festive gathering. If you make it, leave a rating and explore more of my Christmas salad recipes and holiday inspiration on the blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, assemble greens, quinoa, citrus, and pomegranate separately. Dress right before serving.

2. Can I use a different citrus fruit?
Absolutely. Blood oranges, cara cara oranges, or grapefruit work beautifully.

3. How spicy is the ginger flavor?
It’s warm and fragrant, not overpowering. Adjust to taste.

4. What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, roasted chickpeas, or turkey leftovers.

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