Name: Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, or spring mix); 1 cup shredded red cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup roasted butternut squash cubes; 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments; 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds; 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp orange juice; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re craving a salad that bursts with color, flavor, and texture even in the coldest months, you have to try this Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe. It’s packed with seasonal produce like roasted butternut squash, crisp cabbage, juicy mandarins, and jewel-like pomegranate seeds, all tied together with a zesty citrus dressing. This salad brings cheer to the table with every bite, proving that winter veggies can be vibrant, delicious, and downright addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board filled with colorful sliced vegetables arranged in layers. On the left are leafy green arugula, thin yellow and orange bell pepper strips, and round, thinly sliced radishes. In the center, a white bowl holds thin bright red shredded beetroot, while next to it is a white bowl filled with long orange carrot strips. Below the bowls are fresh cucumber slices arranged in a small pile. To the right are two avocado halves, one with the seed still in, next to thinly sliced pale purple onion rings, piles of white shredded vegetable (possibly jicama or daikon), and shredded purple cabbage. A knife is placed vertically near the middle-left side. The electric wooden board is on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the list here—each ingredient is a straightforward superstar that adds its own unique flair. Whether it’s the crunchy seeds or the sweet-tart fruit, every piece plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in this Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe.

4 cups mixed greens: Choose spinach, kale, or spring mix for a fresh, leafy base that’s packed with nutrients.
1 cup shredded red cabbage: Adds vibrant purple color and a satisfying crunch to the salad.
1 cup shredded carrots: Brings a natural sweetness and bright orange hue.
1 cup roasted butternut squash cubes: Soft, sweet, and slightly caramelized for cozy winter warmth.
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds: Jewel-like bursts of tart flavor and beautiful red pops scattered throughout.
1/2 cup mandarin orange segments: Adds juicy citrus notes that brighten the whole salad.
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds: Nutty crunch that’s perfect for texture contrast.
1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional): Creamy, tangy cheese that effortlessly elevates the savory balance.
For the dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil: The silky base that brings all the flavors together.
2 tbsp orange juice: Freshly squeezed for a bright, fruity punch.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a tart zing that wakes up your taste buds.
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness to round out the acidity.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: A subtle kick that deepens the dressing’s complexity.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient.

How to Make Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Butternut Squash

Start by peeling and cubing your butternut squash. Toss the cubes lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (204°C) for about 20 minutes until tender and golden. This warm, caramelized element is what gives the salad its cozy winter vibe.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, add your fresh mixed greens as the foundation. These greens bring a crisp and refreshing balance to the roasted sweetness of the squash and the juicy fruits.

Step 3: Add Color and Crunch

Layer on the shredded red cabbage and carrots for that satisfying crunch and vibrant color. Then sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and mandarin orange segments on top—they bring pops of juicy freshness that brighten every forkful.

Step 4: Sprinkle Seeds and Cheese

Scatter your choice of pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds over the salad to introduce a delightful nutty crunch. If you’re a fan of cheese, crumble feta across the top—it adds a creamy, tangy note that pairs perfectly with the citrus dressing.

Step 5: Whisk and Dress

Whisk the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. You can toss the salad with the dressing right before serving or serve it on the side for people to add as they like.

How to Serve Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad sits on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: thinly sliced purple cabbage with bright violet color spreads across the bowl, beneath it is a layer of pale, white cabbage strips mixed evenly, and scattered on top are chopped green herbs, likely mint, adding a fresh touch. Small pieces of chopped nuts, light brown in color, are sprinkled over the top, giving the salad texture and a bit of crunch. The bowl rests on a light gray cloth with frayed edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint over the salad to add another layer of brightness. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper also amps up the flavor and presentation with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a side to roasted meats like chicken or pork, or alongside a hearty grain bowl for a vegetarian meal. It can also be a refreshing partner to rich and creamy dishes, cutting through with its crisp and citrusy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the beautiful colors or portion it into individual glass jars or bowls for a stunning visual. Drizzling the dressing in a spiral pattern before tossing makes the presentation irresistible and sets the mood for a cozy winter meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but store the dressing separately to keep the greens crisp. The salad should stay fresh for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed soon after assembly to maintain its vibrant textures.

Freezing

Because this salad uses fresh greens, roasted vegetables, and juicy fruits, it’s not suited for freezing. The texture and freshness will suffer, particularly with the greens and citrus components.

Reheating

If you want to reheat the roasted butternut squash, do so gently in the oven or microwave, then add it back into fresh greens and other salad ingredients. Avoid reheating the entire salad to preserve the fresh crunch and vibrant flavors that define the Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

What can I substitute for butternut squash?

Sweet potatoes or roasted carrots are excellent alternatives, providing a similar sweetness and tender texture when roasted.

How long does the dressing keep?

The citrus dressing can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to one week. Just whisk it again before using.

Can I add protein to make this a full meal?

Yes! Cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, or roasted chickpeas would pair wonderfully to make this salad more filling.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Winter Rainbow Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of the season in every bite. Its vibrant colors, fresh textures, and bright, zesty dressing make it an absolute joy to prepare and serve. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a beautiful side, or a festive dish to share, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and let the winter flavors brighten your table!