Cherry Cranberry Pecan Feta Salad

This vibrant Cherry-Coded Cranberry-Pecan Salad has been my summer lunch go-to for years, combining the sweetness of fresh cherries with tangy cranberries and creamy feta for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It takes just minutes to prepare but delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

I first created this salad for an impromptu garden party when cherries were at their peak season, and it's been requested at every summer gathering since. Even my salad-skeptic nephew asks for seconds!

Ingredients

• Mixed salad greens: Fresh, crisp greens provide the perfect base. I prefer a blend of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for varied textures and flavors.
• Fresh cherries: The star of the show! Look for plump, firm cherries with glossy skin and bright green stems for the sweetest flavor.
• Dried cranberries: These add a concentrated sweet-tart punch and chewy texture. Choose unsweetened varieties when possible for better flavor balance.
• Toasted pecan halves: Bringing essential crunch and nutty depth. Toasting them awakens their oils and enhances flavor significantly.
• Crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy tanginess that complements the fruit perfectly. Choose a quality Greek feta for the best texture and flavor.
• Red onion: Provides a gentle bite that cuts through the sweetness. Slice it paper-thin to avoid overpowering other ingredients.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: The foundation of our dressing. Use a good quality oil with fruity notes rather than peppery ones.
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds sophisticated sweetness and acidity. Look for aged varieties for deeper flavor complexity.
• Honey or maple syrup: Just enough sweetness to balance the vinegar. Local honey adds wonderful seasonal nuance.
• Dijon mustard: Acts as both flavor enhancer and emulsifier for the dressing. Always use real Dijon for proper tang.
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential seasoning that brings all elements together. Freshly ground pepper makes a noticeable difference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the salad base:

Place your washed and thoroughly dried greens in a large bowl, creating a fluffy bed for the remaining ingredients. Proper drying prevents diluted dressing and soggy greens.

Add the fruit and cheese components:

Scatter the halved cherries, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta across the greens, distributing them evenly throughout the salad rather than concentrating in one area for consistent flavor in every bite.

Incorporate the crunchy elements:

Sprinkle the toasted pecans and thinly sliced red onion over the salad. The pecans should be completely cooled after toasting to maintain their crispness when added.

Create the dressing:

In a separate bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously for at least 30 seconds until the mixture becomes slightly thickened and emulsified, with no visible separation.

Dress and serve:

Pour the dressing around the perimeter of the salad bowl rather than directly on top, then use salad tongs to gently toss everything together with a lifting motion. This ensures even coating without bruising delicate greens or crushing the cherries.

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The cherries are truly what make this salad special. I discovered this combination one summer when my cherry tree produced an overwhelming harvest. After making countless pies and jams, I started adding them to savory dishes and was amazed at how they transformed even the simplest salad into something extraordinary.

Seasonal Adaptations

This salad gracefully transitions through the seasons with simple substitutions. In spring, replace cherries with strawberries and add tender asparagus tips. Summer allows for peak cherry season enjoyment as written. Fall brings opportunities to use pears or apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon in the dressing. Winter versions work beautifully with pomegranate arils and roasted butternut squash cubes.

Make It A Meal

Transform this side salad into a complete meal with thoughtful protein additions. Grilled chicken breast sliced and fanned across the top adds substantial protein while maintaining the salad's elegant appearance. For pescatarian options, seared salmon or grilled shrimp pair wonderfully with the cherry and feta combination. Vegetarians might enjoy marinated tofu cubes or a sprinkle of quinoa for added substance without overwhelming the delicate flavors.

Storage Tips

While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be managed with proper technique. Store dressed salad no longer than 24 hours in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. For meal prep, prepare components separately and store in compartmentalized containers, combining just before eating. Dressing keeps well for up to one week refrigerated in a sealed jar—just shake vigorously before using as natural separation will occur.

Entertaining Success

This salad consistently earns compliments at gatherings due to its vibrant presentation and complex flavors. For a stunning presentation, serve it on a large white platter rather than a bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients. Consider preparing a double batch of dressing and offering it on the side so guests can adjust to their preference. Create a dramatic tableside moment by adding the feta and pecans just before serving, allowing guests to watch the final transformation.

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Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful salad that's perfect for any summer occasion.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, dried cherries can be substituted, but the salad will have a slightly different texture and less juiciness. You may want to use a bit less dried fruit, as it is sweeter and more concentrated in flavor.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to feta cheese?

Try using a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. Toasted nuts and extra fruit can boost flavor and texture.

→ What greens work best in this salad?

Mixed salad greens such as baby spinach, arugula, or romaine work well and provide a balanced flavor. You can use any combination based on preference or availability.

→ How can I make the salad ahead of time?

Assemble all ingredients, except for the dressing, and store them separately in the fridge. Toss with dressing just before serving to keep greens crisp.

→ Are there alternative nuts suitable for this salad?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and crunch.

→ What can I pair with this salad for a meal?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty grain dish for a complete meal. It also matches well with crisp white wines or rosé.