Cherry, Pecan & Goat Cheese Salad

Simple meets delicious in this Cherry Pecan Goat Cheese Salad. Made with just 6 simple ingredients, it’s the perfect combination of flavors and especially perfect for the holidays!

Every time someone asks me about my favorite food, the first thing that comes to mind is salad. Now, I know what you’re thinking. (BORING!) But honestly? Salad is only as boring as you make it.

The truth is that there are endless ways to do them – from savory to sweet to fruits to vegetables to lettuce vs. grains and so much more. They can be as simple or complex as want them to be… and if you ask me, there’s a place for them all!

I LOVE a hearty, loaded salad like this Caribbean Grilled Chicken Salad and I LOVE a lettuce-free salad like this Southwest Quinoa Salad. But if there’s one type of salad that deserves a spot on every table… it’s a simple salad that’s perfect for the holidays.

Because let’s face it – holiday meals are heavy. But adding salad to the menu lightens it up! So if you’re looking for the PERFECT holiday salad that comes together in 10 minutes or less, stores well in the fridge, and is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite, look no further. This Cherry Pecan Goat Cheese Salad is IT!

What You’ll Need For This Recipe

Mixed greens – Mixed greens are the base of this recipe. Substitute any type of lettuce, including green leaf, romaine, spinach, or arugula.

Goat cheese – Goat cheese adds delicious flavor and creamy texture to the salad. I used a 4 ounce log of goat cheese, but crumbled would also be fine. You could also substitute feta, gorgonzola, Parmesan, or any of your favorites.

Dried cherries – Dried cherries pair beautifully with the goat cheese and add a touch of both tartness and sweetness to this recipe. I used 3/4 cup dried tart cherries.

Pecans – Pecans add nutty flavor and crunch to this salad. I used 3/4 cup unsalted pecan halves, roughly chopped. See “recipe variations” below for substitution ideas.

Green onions – Sliced green onions add extra flavor and give this salad a nice bite. I used 6 green onions, but you can use more or less, to taste. You can also substitute red onion if you prefer.

Balsamic vinaigrette – Balsamic vinaigrette is the perfect savory sweet finishing touch. Use homemade or store bought OR substitute another favorite dressing.

How To make Cherry Pecan Salad

Combine the ingredients. In a large salad bowl, layer mixed greens, goat cheese, dried cherries, chopped pecans, and sliced green onions.

Drizzle with vinaigrette. Drizzle with vinaigrette as desired.

Toss. Toss and serve immediately after adding dressing. *Note: this salad can also be made ahead (minus the dressing) and will store well in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before serving.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This salad can be prepped and made in advance for easy, stress-free holidays and entertaining. Simply prep the ingredients and even assemble the salad (minus the dressing), then store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. Dressing should always be added just before serving to avoid wilting. Leftover salad can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for 1 day if dressed and up to 3 days if undressed.