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As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, the idea of a fresh salad might seem less appealing.
However, winter greens are packed with nutrients and can be prepared in ways that make them both hearty and satisfying, perfect for the season.
Whether you’re craving a warm, roasted salad or a light, vibrant dish, winter greens like kale, spinach, arugula, and Brussels sprouts offer endless possibilities.
In this collection of 20+ winter green salad recipes, we’ll show you how to transform your favorite leafy greens into delicious and nutritious meals that will keep you feeling cozy and satisfied all season long.
From roasted vegetables to tangy dressings and crunchy toppings, these salads are sure to be your go-to for winter nutrition.
20+ Irresistible Winter Green Salad Recipes to Brighten Your Season
As winter settles in, it’s easy to overlook fresh salads in favor of heavier, comfort foods.
But with these 20+ winter green salad recipes, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh, vibrant greens while embracing the warmth and flavors of the season.
Whether you’re making a roasted root vegetable salad or a citrus-packed winter greens dish, these recipes prove that salads are just as comforting in the winter months as they are in the summer.
By incorporating seasonal ingredients and hearty greens, you’ll find that eating healthy during the colder months is both easy and enjoyable.
So, give these recipes a try and savor the winter’s bounty with delicious, nutritious green salads!
1. Warm Roasted Winter Greens Salad
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy hearty, warm salads that incorporate roasted vegetables and fresh, crisp greens.
This Warm Roasted Winter Greens Salad blends tender, roasted root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets with your favorite winter greens, such as kale, arugula, and spinach.
The vegetables are roasted with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary, which intensifies their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
The roasted veggies are then gently tossed with greens to create a comforting, slightly warm salad that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
To elevate the flavor, a tangy vinaigrette made with Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey is drizzled over the top, creating a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tart.
Toasted nuts or seeds, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds, add a delightful crunch.
This salad makes a wonderful main dish or a side to complement your holiday meals.
2. Citrus & Pomegranate Winter Greens Salad
This Citrus & Pomegranate Winter Greens Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for the colder months.
Winter is the season for citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines, which bring a burst of freshness and bright flavor to the salad.
Combine these juicy citrus segments with peppery arugula, nutrient-dense kale, and delicate baby spinach for a beautiful mix of flavors and textures.
The standout ingredient is the pomegranate, whose jewel-like seeds offer both a pop of color and a tangy sweetness that complements the citrus.
For added crunch, sprinkle in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds, and finish with a light drizzle of a honey-citrus dressing, combining olive oil, orange juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of maple syrup.
This salad feels like a celebration of winter’s freshest produce and is a great way to boost your vitamin intake during the season.
3. Hearty Winter Greens & Apple Salad with Cheddar
A great winter salad doesn’t have to be light – it can also be hearty and filling. This Hearty Winter Greens & Apple Salad with Cheddar does just that.
The combination of earthy, fibrous greens like collard greens, mustard greens, and baby kale pairs beautifully with crisp, tart apples, such as Granny Smiths or Honeycrisps, which add sweetness and crunch to each bite.
Sharp, aged cheddar cheese is shaved over the top, lending a rich, creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the crunchiness of the apples and the greens.
To add depth to the flavor, the salad is topped with roasted pecans or walnuts for a toasty finish, along with a simple yet tangy vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
This salad is both satisfying and nutritious, offering a perfect balance of bitter, sweet, and savory elements.
It’s a wonderful dish for a light lunch or as a side to accompany roasted meats.
4. Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale Salad
If you’re craving a warm, comforting salad packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this Roasted Butternut Squash & Kale Salad.
The sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of kale, which is massaged with olive oil to soften its texture and enhance its natural flavor.
The squash is seasoned with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of salt before being roasted until tender and caramelized, creating a rich, slightly smoky flavor that blends beautifully with the greens.
To add a burst of color and sweetness, dried cranberries or raisins are tossed in, providing an extra layer of texture.
For a satisfying crunch, roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are sprinkled over the top, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette with maple syrup drizzled on top ties the salad together.
This is the ultimate winter salad – full of warmth, sweetness, and hearty satisfaction.
It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a light, healthy lunch.
5. Beet & Goat Cheese Winter Salad
Beets are a classic winter vegetable, and this Beet & Goat Cheese Winter Salad is the perfect way to enjoy them.
The earthy, sweet flavor of roasted beets is complemented by the creamy tang of goat cheese, creating a balanced and luxurious taste.
Begin by roasting fresh beets in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, allowing them to become tender and develop a caramelized exterior.
Once cooled, slice the beets into wedges and layer them over a bed of winter greens like arugula, spinach, and baby kale.
For added texture, sprinkle on some toasted walnuts or hazelnuts, which offer a satisfying crunch and a slightly smoky flavor.
The salad is dressed with a simple vinaigrette made from red wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, which perfectly balances the richness of the goat cheese.
This vibrant, colorful salad makes an elegant addition to any winter meal and is sure to impress guests at your next gathering.
6. Warm Brussels Sprout & Bacon Salad
If you’re looking for a hearty salad to warm you up on chilly winter days, this Warm Brussels Sprout & Bacon Salad is the answer.
Brussels sprouts are thinly sliced and sautéed with crispy bacon, which adds a savory, smoky element to the dish.
The sprouts are cooked until they’re tender with crispy edges, creating a perfect contrast to the rich, crispy bacon.
To balance out the richness, a simple dressing made from apple cider vinegar, mustard, and a touch of honey is drizzled over the salad, giving it a slightly tangy, sweet finish.
Toss in some toasted almonds or pecans for an extra crunch and garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, to enhance the flavors.
This warm and comforting salad is ideal as a main course for a lighter dinner or as a delicious side dish to accompany roast meats during the winter months.
7. Apple & Walnut Winter Salad
This Apple & Walnut Winter Salad brings together the perfect combination of crisp, juicy apples and crunchy, toasted walnuts for a refreshing yet hearty dish.
The apples, preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Gala, are sliced thinly to provide a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the bitterness of hearty greens like arugula, spinach, or frisée.
The crunch of the apples is complemented by the rich, toasted walnuts, which add both texture and a warm, nutty flavor.
To elevate the salad, a tangy vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey is drizzled over the top, creating a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
A few crumbles of blue cheese or feta cheese can be added for a creamy, salty touch, and dried cranberries or raisins provide a pop of color and sweetness.
This simple yet satisfying salad is perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
8. Pear & Gorgonzola Winter Salad
This Pear & Gorgonzola Winter Salad is a perfect harmony of sweet, juicy pears and creamy, tangy Gorgonzola cheese.
The pears are thinly sliced to showcase their soft texture and natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the sharpness of the Gorgonzola.
A mix of winter greens like arugula, spinach, and radicchio serves as the perfect base for these flavors, offering a slightly peppery bite that balances the richness of the cheese.
For added texture, crunchy candied pecans or walnuts are scattered throughout the salad, providing a sweet and salty contrast.
A light, balsamic vinaigrette, made with balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil, is drizzled over the salad to tie everything together.
The result is a salad that feels indulgent yet refreshing – the perfect dish to serve at your next winter dinner party or to enjoy as a satisfying lunch.
9. Spinach & Roasted Carrot Salad with Tahini Dressing
This Spinach & Roasted Carrot Salad with Tahini Dressing is a vibrant, nutrient-packed salad that combines the sweetness of roasted carrots with the earthiness of fresh spinach.
The carrots are roasted with a drizzle of olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of cumin and cinnamon, which brings out their natural sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
The tender roasted carrots are then tossed with fresh spinach, which provides a mild, slightly peppery taste that complements the carrots perfectly.
To bring all the flavors together, a creamy tahini dressing made with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of maple syrup is poured over the salad, creating a rich and slightly tangy flavor.
The salad can be topped with pumpkin seeds or toasted almonds for added crunch.
This simple yet flavorful salad is a perfect addition to any winter meal and can be served as a main or side dish.
10. Warm Quinoa & Brussels Sprout Salad
This Warm Quinoa & Brussels Sprout Salad is a hearty and nutritious option that’s perfect for winter.
The quinoa provides a protein-packed base, while the Brussels sprouts are thinly sliced and sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness and crunch.
The combination of these two ingredients offers a satisfying texture and a well-rounded flavor profile.
Add roasted sweet potatoes to the mix for an extra burst of sweetness and to complement the earthy flavors of the sprouts and quinoa.
To make this salad even more flavorful, toss in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for crunch and a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of tart sweetness.
The dressing is made with a simple balsamic glaze mixed with olive oil, mustard, and a hint of maple syrup, which adds richness and depth to the dish.
This warm salad is perfect for those cold winter nights when you want something filling yet nutritious.
11. Roasted Root Vegetable & Spinach Salad
This Roasted Root Vegetable & Spinach Salad celebrates the vibrant flavors of winter root vegetables, such as parsnips, carrots, and turnips, paired with fresh spinach.
The root vegetables are roasted until golden and caramelized, bringing out their sweetness and adding a warm, hearty element to the salad.
The spinach adds a crisp, refreshing contrast and balances the richness of the roasted vegetables.
For added depth of flavor, sprinkle some crumbled goat cheese or feta over the salad, which adds a creamy, tangy bite.
Toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, and the whole salad is dressed with a zesty vinaigrette made from olive oil, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, offering a bright counterpoint to the rich vegetables.
This salad is a perfect side dish or a filling meal that captures the essence of winter’s flavors.
12. Roasted Cauliflower & Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
The Roasted Cauliflower & Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing is a perfect combination of roasted, caramelized cauliflower and tender kale, providing a rich, earthy flavor with a refreshing, bright contrast.
The cauliflower is roasted with olive oil and a sprinkle of cumin and turmeric, which gives it a warm, savory taste that pairs beautifully with the kale.
To soften the kale and bring out its natural flavor, massage it with a little olive oil and lemon juice.
The dish is elevated with a creamy, zesty lemon tahini dressing, which is made by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, creating a velvety sauce that ties everything together.
For added crunch, top the salad with roasted chickpeas or toasted pine nuts.
This salad is both light and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for a healthy, winter meal or as a hearty side dish.
13. Shaved Brussels Sprout & Cranberry Salad
This Shaved Brussels Sprout & Cranberry Salad brings together the slightly bitter crunch of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of fresh cranberries for a refreshing winter salad.
The Brussels sprouts are finely shaved, allowing them to soak up the dressing and providing a lighter texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy pop of the cranberries.
The sweetness of the cranberries is balanced with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing, accented by a touch of honey to bring out the fruitiness.
To add a bit more crunch, toasted pecans or slivered almonds are tossed into the salad, while goat cheese or feta crumbles give it a creamy, savory contrast.
This salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal side dish for your holiday table or a simple, healthy lunch for chilly days.
14. Sweet Potato & Kale Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
This Sweet Potato & Kale Salad with Maple Vinaigrette combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy richness of kale.
The sweet potatoes are roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, bringing out their deep, rich flavor.
The kale is massaged with olive oil and a dash of salt to tenderize it, making it the perfect base for this hearty salad.
The maple vinaigrette—made with real maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil—adds a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity to complement the vegetables.
Toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds provide a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy bite.
This salad is both filling and nourishing, making it a fantastic option for a light dinner or a side dish at your next gathering.
15. Pomegranate & Spinach Winter Salad
This Pomegranate & Spinach Winter Salad is a burst of color and flavor, showcasing the jewel-like pomegranate seeds as the star of the dish.
The sweet, tart pomegranate seeds contrast beautifully with the fresh, mild flavor of spinach, making each bite refreshing and vibrant.
Add thinly sliced red onion for a hint of sharpness and roasted almonds for a delightful crunch.
To elevate the salad further, a simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and a splash of balsamic vinegar is drizzled on top.
The result is a balanced salad with bright, tangy flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for a light yet impressive winter dish or as a side salad for your holiday meals.
16. Winter Citrus & Avocado Salad
This Winter Citrus & Avocado Salad is a refreshing and nutrient-packed dish, perfect for adding a burst of brightness to your winter meals.
It features juicy slices of winter citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and blood oranges, paired with creamy avocado for a delightful contrast in texture.
The citrus provides a refreshing, tangy flavor that complements the rich, smooth avocado.
Tossed together with peppery arugula and tender baby spinach, this salad is both light and satisfying.
To add an extra crunch, top it with toasted sunflower seeds or pistachios, and finish with a simple dressing made from olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of honey.
This vibrant salad is full of healthy fats, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it an ideal choice for a healthy, winter meal.
17. Roasted Parsnip & Beetroot Salad
This Roasted Parsnip & Beetroot Salad is a colorful, earthy dish that celebrates the best of winter root vegetables.
Roasted parsnips and beets are the stars of this salad, providing natural sweetness and a deep, caramelized flavor.
The earthy tones of the roasted beets pair wonderfully with the subtle, slightly nutty flavor of roasted parsnips.
The vegetables are combined with fresh kale or arugula, which offer a peppery bite that balances the sweetness of the roasted roots.
A creamy dollop of goat cheese or ricotta adds richness, while toasted hazelnuts or walnuts give the salad an added crunch.
The salad is finished with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, which ties the entire dish together with its rich, acidic notes.
This warm, hearty salad is perfect as a main or a side dish for any winter meal.
18. Brussels Sprout & Apple Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
This Brussels Sprout & Apple Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will brighten up your winter table.
Shaved Brussels sprouts form the base of the salad, providing a slightly bitter, crunchy element, while thinly sliced apples—such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—add a sweet and tart contrast.
The salad is elevated with the addition of roasted pecans or walnuts, which contribute a warm, toasty flavor, and a simple honey mustard dressing that brings everything together with its creamy, sweet-tangy richness.
The dressing, made with Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil, is the perfect complement to the sharpness of the Brussels sprouts and the sweetness of the apples.
This salad is an excellent way to enjoy raw Brussels sprouts in a light yet satisfying dish.
19. Roasted Acorn Squash & Spinach Salad
This Roasted Acorn Squash & Spinach Salad is a perfect winter dish that brings together the savory sweetness of acorn squash and the vibrant freshness of spinach.
The acorn squash is sliced and roasted with olive oil, cinnamon, and a touch of salt, which caramelizes the edges and brings out its natural sweetness.
When paired with fresh spinach, the result is a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
To add depth, toasted pecans or pumpkin seeds are scattered over the top for a satisfying crunch, while dried cranberries offer a subtle sweetness.
A light maple balsamic dressing, made with balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil, ties everything together, giving a warm, comforting feel to the salad.
This salad is perfect as a hearty side dish or a main for a light winter lunch.
20. Roasted Sweet Potato & Chickpea Salad
This Roasted Sweet Potato & Chickpea Salad is a hearty, nutrient-dense dish that combines roasted sweet potatoes and crispy chickpeas with fresh greens for a filling winter meal.
The sweet potatoes are roasted until caramelized and tender, while the chickpeas are roasted with olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic to give them a crunchy, savory flavor.
Mixed with baby spinach or kale, this salad is topped with a tangy lemon-tahini dressing that combines tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a little maple syrup to create a creamy yet zesty sauce.
For extra texture, sprinkle with roasted almonds or sunflower seeds. This warm salad is perfect for meal prep or as a wholesome dinner option during the colder months.
Conclusion
Winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fresh, healthy meals. With these 20+ winter green salad recipes, you can indulge in satisfying salads that are not only nourishing but also full of flavor. From crispy kale salads to hearty roasted vegetable blends, these recipes highlight the versatility of winter greens and offer something for every palate. No matter if you’re looking for a side dish, a light meal, or a way to boost your winter nutrition, these recipes are sure to bring a fresh twist to your winter dining experience. Embrace the season with the best of winter greens and enjoy every bite of these delicious, warming salads.
