20+ Refreshing Winter Green Salad Recipes to Brighten Your Table

Winter doesn’t mean saying goodbye to fresh and flavorful salads! In fact, winter green salads are a vibrant way to bring seasonal produce to your table while staying healthy during the colder months.

From nutrient-packed kale to peppery arugula, these salads are loaded with winter greens that pair perfectly with hearty ingredients like roasted vegetables, nuts, and tangy dressings.

Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a main course, these 20+ winter green salad recipes will add color and brightness to your winter meals.

Get ready to explore a range of recipes that balance comfort and freshness—perfect for cozy dinners, holiday spreads, or a midweek pick-me-up.

These recipes celebrate the best of winter produce, proving that salads can be as hearty and satisfying as a warm bowl of soup.

20+ Refreshing Winter Green Salad Recipes to Brighten Your Table

Winter green salads offer the perfect balance of nourishment and flavor during the colder months.

From the sweet tang of citrus fruits paired with hearty greens to the crunch of toasted nuts and the creaminess of cheese, these recipes bring a variety of tastes and textures to your plate.

With these 20+ winter green salad recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas to make your meals vibrant and refreshing.

So, grab your favorite greens and winter ingredients, and start creating these beautiful, delicious salads.

They’re guaranteed to warm your heart while keeping your body energized all season long. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet dinner, these salads are a perfect choice to brighten up winter days.

Winter Kale and Cranberry Salad

This Winter Kale and Cranberry Salad is a refreshing yet hearty dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the season. Tender kale leaves are paired with the tartness of dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese, all tied together with a citrusy vinaigrette. It’s a perfect addition to your holiday table or as a wholesome lunch during colder months.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups kale, washed and chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ⅓ cup walnuts, toasted
• ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 orange (for juice and zest)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Massage the kale: Place the kale in a large bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and massage for 2–3 minutes until the leaves soften.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine the salad: Add the cranberries and toasted walnuts to the kale. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well.
4. Top with goat cheese: Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the salad before serving.

The Winter Kale and Cranberry Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that celebrates the essence of winter produce. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a nutrient-packed meal, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and refreshing taste.

Warm Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad

Cozy up with this Warm Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad, a seasonal dish that brings warmth and crunch to your winter meals. Roasted Brussels sprouts are paired with crisp apple slices, toasted pecans, and a maple-Dijon dressing for a flavorful medley that’s perfect for cold evenings.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup pecans, toasted
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the Brussels sprouts: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and slightly crispy.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm roasted Brussels sprouts, apple slices, and toasted pecans. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
4. Serve warm: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy while it’s warm.

This Warm Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad is an inviting dish that perfectly blends sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The roasted vegetables and fresh apples create a comforting yet refreshing balance, making it a great option for winter weeknight dinners or holiday spreads.

Spinach, Pomegranate, and Feta Salad

Brighten up your winter table with this Spinach, Pomegranate, and Feta Salad. The vibrant red pomegranate seeds pop against fresh spinach leaves, while crumbled feta adds creaminess and toasted almonds bring a satisfying crunch. A light lemon vinaigrette ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine spinach, pomegranate seeds, and toasted almonds. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
3. Add feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top before serving.

This Spinach, Pomegranate, and Feta Salad is a showstopper that combines the best of winter’s fresh ingredients. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as a festive appetizer or a light and refreshing side for your main course. Enjoy the burst of flavors and colors with every bite!

Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad

This Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad is a vibrant winter delight that balances earthy beets, peppery arugula, and tangy goat cheese with the crunch of toasted pistachios. A balsamic-honey dressing adds a touch of sweetness, making this salad both hearty and elegant. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a festive starter for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium beets, roasted and sliced
• 4 cups arugula
• ⅓ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup pistachios, toasted
• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45–60 minutes, or until tender. Let cool, then peel and slice.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula and roasted beet slices. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Add toppings: Sprinkle the salad with goat cheese and pistachios before serving.

The Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad combines stunning colors and flavors for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its nutrient-rich ingredients and sweet, tangy dressing, it’s a winter classic that will elevate any meal.

Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad

Bring sunshine to your plate with this Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad, a refreshing dish bursting with seasonal citrus fruits and creamy avocado. Paired with crisp greens and a zesty citrus dressing, this salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory. Ideal for light lunches or as a bright side to hearty winter meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 oranges, peeled and sliced
• 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Arrange the salad: On a large serving platter, layer mixed greens, orange slices, grapefruit slices, avocado, and red onion.
3. Drizzle and serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

The Winter Citrus and Avocado Salad is a refreshing escape from the season’s heavier dishes. Its vibrant colors and flavors bring life to your winter menu, offering a healthy and delicious way to enjoy nature’s winter bounty.

Pear, Walnut, and Blue Cheese Salad

This Pear, Walnut, and Blue Cheese Salad is a wintertime classic that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the sharpness of blue cheese and the crunch of toasted walnuts. Tossed in a honey-mustard vinaigrette, this elegant salad is perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat on a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• ⅓ cup blue cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, pear slices, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
3. Add blue cheese: Top the salad with crumbled blue cheese before serving.

The Pear, Walnut, and Blue Cheese Salad is a luxurious blend of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Its combination of sweet, savory, and nutty elements makes it a perfect winter indulgence, adding sophistication to any meal.

Winter Spinach and Quinoa Salad

This Winter Spinach and Quinoa Salad is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh spinach, sweet roasted butternut squash, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, it’s a warm and satisfying salad for chilly days. Tossed with a tangy lemon-tahini dressing, it’s a versatile dish that works as a main course or a hearty side.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1½ cups butternut squash, cubed and roasted
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds, toasted
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• 3 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the butternut squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Add water to thin if needed.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach, cooked quinoa, roasted squash, pumpkin seeds, and dried cranberries. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

The Winter Spinach and Quinoa Salad is a satisfying and nourishing dish that brings seasonal ingredients to life. With its mix of vibrant colors, textures, and flavors, this salad is perfect for a cozy lunch or a festive gathering.

Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Ginger Dressing

Add a refreshing crunch to your winter menu with this Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Ginger Dressing. Shredded red cabbage and carrots create a vibrant base, while the zingy ginger dressing adds warmth and brightness. Perfect as a light side dish or a zesty topping for hearty mains, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 cups carrots, shredded
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey.
2. Combine the slaw: In a large bowl, mix red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
3. Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss until well coated.
4. Chill and serve: Let the slaw sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving.

The Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Ginger Dressing is a refreshing winter salad that brightens any meal. With its crisp vegetables and warming ginger kick, it’s a healthy and vibrant addition to your cold-weather table.

Warm Farro and Roasted Veggie Salad

This Warm Farro and Roasted Veggie Salad is a hearty and wholesome dish that’s perfect for winter. Nutty farro pairs beautifully with caramelized roasted vegetables, creamy feta, and a simple lemon-garlic dressing. It’s a comforting and nutrient-packed option for lunch or dinner, showcasing the season’s best produce.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup farro, cooked
• 1½ cups sweet potatoes, cubed and roasted
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved and roasted
• ⅓ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, roasted vegetables, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Serve: Enjoy warm for the best flavor.

The Warm Farro and Roasted Veggie Salad is a satisfying winter dish that’s both hearty and healthy. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s a great choice for warming up on a cold day or as a comforting addition to your winter dinner table.

Kale and Sweet Potato Winter Salad

This Kale and Sweet Potato Winter Salad is a cozy yet refreshing dish that combines tender roasted sweet potatoes with nutrient-rich kale. Tossed with pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and crunch, this salad is finished with a maple-Dijon vinaigrette that balances sweet and tangy flavors. Perfect for winter dinners or as a festive holiday side.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
• 1½ cups sweet potatoes, cubed and roasted
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• ¼ cup pecans, toasted
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Massage the kale: In a large bowl, drizzle a little olive oil over the kale and massage it with your hands for 2–3 minutes to soften.
2. Roast the sweet potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad: Combine the massaged kale, roasted sweet potatoes, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pecans in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill slightly before serving.

The Kale and Sweet Potato Winter Salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the hearty roasted sweet potatoes to the crisp kale and juicy pomegranate seeds. With its vibrant colors and nutrient-packed ingredients, it’s an inviting dish for any winter meal.

Warm Lentil and Spinach Salad

This Warm Lentil and Spinach Salad is a hearty and comforting dish that’s ideal for chilly days. The combination of earthy lentils, wilted spinach, and roasted red peppers is complemented by a lemon-garlic vinaigrette. Rich in protein and fiber, this salad is a wholesome option for a light winter meal or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
• 4 cups spinach
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Warm the lentils: Heat the cooked lentils gently in a pan or microwave.
2. Wilt the spinach: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and add spinach. Cook until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: In a large bowl, mix warm lentils, wilted spinach, roasted red peppers, and red onion. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
5. Serve: Enjoy warm as a main dish or a side.

The Warm Lentil and Spinach Salad is a filling and nourishing winter dish, packed with flavor and warmth. Its simple yet satisfying ingredients make it a versatile recipe you’ll want to revisit throughout the season.

Apple, Fennel, and Walnut Salad

This Apple, Fennel, and Walnut Salad is a crisp and refreshing winter dish that showcases seasonal apples and fennel. Tossed with a light honey-lemon vinaigrette and topped with toasted walnuts, it offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. This salad is great as a light side or a palate-cleansing course during holiday feasts.

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, thinly sliced
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Slice the fennel and apples: Use a mandoline or sharp knife for thin, even slices.
2. Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced apples, fennel, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor.

The Apple, Fennel, and Walnut Salad is a bright and crunchy dish that highlights the best of winter produce. Its refreshing flavors and textures make it a delightful addition to any winter meal, offering a light yet satisfying option for the season.

Roasted Beet and Orange Winter Salad

This Roasted Beet and Orange Winter Salad combines earthy, caramelized beets with the bright, citrusy sweetness of oranges. Paired with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, it’s tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette that enhances every flavor. This salad is perfect for adding a splash of color and nutrition to your winter table.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium beets, roasted and sliced
• 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
• 4 cups mixed greens
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
• ¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45–60 minutes until tender. Let cool, then peel and slice.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, orange segments, walnuts, and goat cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Serve: Enjoy as a refreshing side or a light main dish.

The Roasted Beet and Orange Winter Salad is a stunning dish with vibrant colors and harmonious flavors. It’s a beautiful way to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your winter meal plans while offering a delightful balance of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess.

Warm Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad

This Warm Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad is a hearty and flavorful winter dish. Wild rice’s nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the tart sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pecans. A honey-mustard dressing ties everything together for a satisfying salad that’s perfect as a standalone meal or a side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked wild rice
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup pecans, toasted
• 2 cups arugula or spinach
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the wild rice: Follow package instructions to cook the rice. Keep warm.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine warm wild rice, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and greens. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Serve: Enjoy while warm for a comforting dish.

The Warm Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad is a delightful winter recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with a tangy-sweet dressing. Its comforting warmth and rich flavors make it a perfect addition to cold-weather meals or holiday gatherings.

Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Salad

This Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Salad is a sophisticated winter dish that’s bursting with flavor. Sweet, juicy pears complement the tangy creaminess of Gorgonzola cheese, while toasted walnuts and peppery arugula provide texture and bite. Finished with a light honey-lemon vinaigrette, it’s an elegant choice for a cozy winter evening or festive dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
• ¼ cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pears: Slice pears thinly and set aside.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula, pear slices, Gorgonzola cheese, and walnuts. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
4. Serve: Plate the salad and serve immediately for best freshness.

The Pear, Gorgonzola, and Walnut Salad is a winter classic with an elegant twist. Its harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors makes it an irresistible addition to any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!