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; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Kitchen Recipes

This refreshing Winter Field Salad with Walnuts and Orange Segments is a delightful way to brighten your winter meals. Packed with vibrant flavors and textures, it's perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-04T21:17:50.875Z

This Winter Field Salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

The combination of crunchy walnuts and sweet orange segments creates a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        A refreshing burst of citrus in every bite
Crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture
Perfect as a light meal or a side dish

      

A Burst of Flavor and Nutrition

Winter might be known for its hearty meals, but this Winter Field Salad proves that fresh, light dishes can shine even in the coldest months. The combination of mixed field greens and sweet orange segments not only elevates your palette but also delivers essential vitamins and antioxidants. This salad is a delightful reminder that nutrition can be both delicious and visually appealing.

The addition of walnuts provides a satisfying crunch, along with healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. These nuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this salad not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nourishing option for your body. With a hint of feta cheese, this dish reaches a perfect balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Versatile Meal Options

One of the best aspects of this Winter Field Salad is its versatility. It can easily transition from a light lunch to a side dish for an elegant dinner. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying meal, or serve it alongside your favorite winter soup for a comforting dining experience. The flavors are complementary to many proteins, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Additionally, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Make a larger batch and store the components separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy it, toss the ingredients together for a fresh, quick meal that fits into your busy lifestyle. The dressing can also be made in advance, making it an even more convenient option for those on the go.

Seasonal Adaptations

While this recipe celebrates winter's bounty, feel free to adapt it according to the seasons. In spring, consider adding fresh strawberries or asparagus; in summer, swap the oranges for peaches or berries. Each seasonal variation will lend a different character to the salad, allowing you to enjoy it year-round with the ingredients that are freshest and most flavorful.

Experimenting with different dressings can also keep this recipe exciting. A citrus vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt dressing can bring a new twist to the classic flavor profile. By trying new combinations, you can make this Winter Field Salad a staple in your culinary repertoire, no matter the time of year.

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 Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed field 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.

Toss and Serve

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

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Winter Field Salad, it's important to store the ingredients properly. Keep the mixed greens and other salad components separate until you're ready to serve. This will prevent the greens from wilting and ensure that each bite is crisp and delightful.

If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it's best to consume it within a day or two to enjoy the optimal flavors and textures. If you're packing it for lunch, consider adding the dressing in a separate container to keep everything fresh until you're ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve the Winter Field Salad on a chilled plate. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also keeps the greens crisp. Garnish with additional orange segments or a sprinkle of walnuts on top for added texture and color.

Consider pairing the salad with a light, refreshing beverage, like iced herbal tea or sparkling water with a twist of lemon. The refreshing drink will complement the citrus notes in the salad and enhance your overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans or almonds if you prefer.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be great additions.