Ensalada Navideña

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ensalada Navideña is a festive and colorful dish that brings a refreshing touch to your holiday table. This traditional Mexican Christmas salad is a delightful combination of fruits, vegetables, and creamy dressing, offering a balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and a perfect side dish to complement hearty holiday meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples
• Pineapple
• Celery
• Raisins
• Walnuts
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Sour cream
• Maraschino cherries (optional)
• Grapes (optional)
• Fresh cream (optional)

Directions

1. Wash and dice the apples and celery into bite-sized pieces.
2. Drain the pineapple and cut it into small chunks if using fresh pineapple.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the apples, pineapple, celery, raisins, and walnuts.
4. Add the sweetened condensed milk and sour cream to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are coated evenly.
5. If desired, add halved grapes and chopped maraschino cherries for extra color and flavor.
6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish during your holiday feast.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 1 hour of chilling time.

Variations

• Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or papaya for a more tropical flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the dairy ingredients with coconut cream and a dairy-free sweetener.
• Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts if you have nut allergies or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in a bit of fresh cream for a richer, creamier consistency.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Ensalada Navideña in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

What is Ensalada Navideña?

Ensalada Navideña is a traditional Mexican Christmas salad made with fruits, vegetables, and a creamy dressing, often served as a festive side dish.

Can I make Ensalada Navideña ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What type of apples are best for this salad?

Crisp apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work well for their sweetness and firm texture.

Can I use canned fruits instead of fresh?

Yes, canned fruits like pineapple can be used. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Toss the diced apples in a little lemon juice before mixing to prevent browning.

Is it necessary to add nuts?

No, nuts are optional. You can omit them or replace them with seeds if preferred.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, substitute the condensed milk with a plant-based sweetened milk and use coconut cream instead of sour cream.

How long does Ensalada Navideña last in the fridge?

It can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I add other fruits to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add fruits like bananas, strawberries, or peaches for variety.

Is Ensalada Navideña served as a dessert or side dish?

While it has sweet elements, it’s typically served as a refreshing side dish during holiday meals.

Conclusion

Ensalada Navideña is a vibrant, flavorful addition to any holiday celebration. Its combination of fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and creamy dressing creates a delightful contrast that everyone will enjoy. Easy to prepare and versatile, this festive salad is sure to become a holiday favorite.

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