Cornucopia Salad is a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, fruits, and nuts, symbolizing abundance and balance. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas or any occasion, it’s as nutritious as it is beautiful.

As an immigrant hosting my first Thanksgiving, I discovered Cornucopia Salad—a dish that quickly became a favorite and a holiday staple. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors beautifully complement the fall palette and traditional menu. Each year, it’s the first dish to be wiped clean, bringing joy and connection to the table. Cornucopia Salad has become my way of blending new traditions with cherished memories.

What is Cornucopia Salad 

The word cornucopia comes from Latin, meaning “horn of plenty.” It traditionally symbolizes abundance and nourishment, often depicted as a curved, horn-shaped container overflowing with fruits, vegetables, and grains. This imagery originates from Greek and Roman mythology, where it represented prosperity and the bountiful gifts of nature.

Cornucopia Salad is a versatile and colorful American salad with a variety of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and sometimes grains or proteins. It’s a perfect representation of abundance, often served during festive gatherings like Thanksgiving or summer picnics. The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability—you can customize it to include seasonal ingredients or your personal favorites, making it a delightful addition to any table.

Cornucopia Salad at a Glance 

• Cuisine: American Cuisine  
• Dietary Info: Vegan-vegetarian  
• Key Favor: Harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty
• Skill Level: beginner 

Why You Will Make Cornucopia Salad on Repeat 

• Quick: Takes 20 minutes to put together.
• Crowd Pleaser: it adapts effortlessly to different preferences, dietary needs, and seasons.
• Make ahead recipe: You can make it a day ahead.
• Showstopper: Cornucopia Salad has vibrant colors and mix of textures that make it a stunning centerpiece. 
• Filling: Cornucopia salad provides a balanced and filling combination of nuts, proteins and vegetables.

Cornucopia Salad’s Ingredients 

• Greens: A mix of greens and lettuce.
• Vegetables: Celery
• Fruits: Sliced apples and pears and dry cranberries 
• Nuts and Seeds: Toasted almonds
• Protein: Blue cheese.

Possible Substitutions & Additions of Cornucopia Salad 

• Use canned mandarines instead of pears or apples. 
• Walnuts or pumpkin seeds instead of almonds. 
• Feta cheese instead of blue cheese. 
• Add animal protein such as grilled chicken strips.
• Add grains such as quinoa, bulgur or faro. 

How to Make Cornucopia Salad 

1. Prepare the Base: Wash and dry the greens. Arrange them on a large platter or in a salad bowl.
2. Add Layers of Goodness: Top the greens with vegetables, fruits, nuts, and any optional ingredients like grains or protein.
3. Make the Dressing: Whisk together the olive/avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.

Tips for Making the Best Cornucopia Salad 

1. Use Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: Seasonal produce not only tastes better but also adds a natural vibrancy to your salad.
2. Prep Ahead: Chop and store ingredients separately in airtight containers to assemble the salad quickly when needed.
3. Balance Textures and Flavors: Aim for a mix of crunchy, creamy, and juicy ingredients. Balance sweet fruits with tangy dressings for a harmonious flavor.
4. Toast the Nuts: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
5. Serve Immediately: Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.

What to Serve with Cornucopia Salad 

• Ruz Bel Khalta 
• Batata Harra 
• Brussels Sprouts-Basturma 
• Orange-Rosemary Cranberry Sauce
• Dutchess Potatoes 
• Cornucopia Salad 
  
• Orange-Sweet Potato Mash

More Salads on Chez Nermine 

• Trio Beans-Corn Salad 
• Salata Baladi (Egyptian Green Salad)
• Salatet Bangar (Egyptian Beet salad)
• Salatet Zabadi Bel Khiar (Yogurt-Cucumber Salad)
• Watermelon-Feta Salad 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cornucopia Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance, but keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness.

2. What are some protein options for Cornucopia salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs are excellent protein options.

3. How do I store leftovers of Cornucopia Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing and skip animal-based proteins or dairy.

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