Looking for something quick, festive, and delicious? This 5-Minute Christmas Salad checks all the boxes. It’s colorful, fresh, and packed with flavor—perfect as a light lunch, snack, or cheerful side dish during the holiday rush.
With crisp cucumber, sweet bell pepper, and juicy apple, this salad is bright and refreshing. Toss in some tender pasta, savory ham, and a handful of corn and peas, and you’ve got a bowl full of holiday cheer that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
🎄 Why You’ll Love This Festive Salad
- Quick to prepare – ready in just 5 minutes, especially if you’ve got leftover pasta
- Stress-free and festive – no cooking fuss, just mix and enjoy
- Versatile – great as a side, a light main, or even a grab-and-go snack
- Customizable – add cheese, fresh herbs, or swap in your favorite protein
While the pasta is cooking, you can prep the rest—efficient, easy, and perfect for busy holiday moments. A simple oil-mustard-vinegar dressing ties it all together for a fresh and balanced flavor.
🥗 Ingredients (Serves 1–2)
- 70g small pasta (like penne or farfalle)
- ¼ cucumber, diced
- ½ red or yellow bell pepper, chopped
- ½ sweet apple, chopped
- ½ small onion (red or white), finely chopped
- ½ slice cooked ham, diced
- ½ can corn and peas (75–100g, drained)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tsp olive or rapeseed oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider or white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp medium mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 How to Make It
1. Cook the pasta
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. Chop the ingredients
Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, apple (toss it in lemon juice to prevent browning), and onion. Dice the ham.
3. Mix everything
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped veggies, apple, ham, corn, and peas.
4. Make the dressing
Whisk together oil, vinegar, and mustard in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss and serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors blend.
✨ Pro Tips:
- The salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours.
- Want to add extra flavor? Sprinkle in grated cheese or top with chopped parsley or chives.