Celebrate the season with a salad that’s as merry and bright as the holiday itself! This Cucumber Salad takes a fresh twist on the original recipe, incorporating festive colors, a dash of holiday flavor, and garnishes that are perfect for your Christmas table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or contributing a dish to a potluck, this salad is sure to spread cheer—and impress your guests!

Servings

Ingredients

4 small Persian cucumbers or 2 large cucumbers (cut into thin slices)
1 red pepper (diced)
½ cup grape tomatoes (halved)
½ cup edamame (shelled and cooked)
1 carrot (grated)
2 tsp tahini
1 garlic clove or shallot (quartered)
2 tbsp sesame oil or peanut oil
2 tsp rice wine vinegar (with no sugar added)
2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce (or 2 tsp. Braggs Liquid)
2 tsp fresh gingerroot (diced or grated)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp black sesame seeds found in the Asian section of most supermarkets)

Instructions

In a blender, put tahini, garlic (or shallot), vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, salt and pepper. Blend briefly.
While the blender is running, add oil in a slow stream. Set dressing aside.
In a salad bowl, toss together cucumbers, red pepper, tomatoes, edamame and carrot.
Either dish salad mix into bowls and drizzle a small amount of salad onto each salad or toss dressing into the entire salad mix before dishing.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Add sunflower seeds and chives if desired.

This Christmas Cucumber Salad isn’t just delicious—it’s a visual centerpiece. Its crisp, refreshing flavors balance perfectly with rich holiday meals, making it a must-have for your celebration. Whether you’re looking for a light starter or a side dish to complement the main course, this salad is bound to be a hit.

Serve with joy, laughter, and plenty of holiday spirit! 🎅🎄✨

What are your favorite festive ingredients to add to salads?