Adorable Snowman Salad to Wow Your Guests
In my family, we generally gather with a large group on Christmas Eve, serving food family-style so everyone can help themselves. Christmas Day, however, is a more intimate affair. It’s when I bring out my Christmas china and serve a special dinner. This year, if you’re plating a salad, I’ve got the perfect surprise for your family: the whimsical and adorable Snowman Salad!
This festive creation is as fun to make as it is to serve. If you have kids at the table, they’ll love it. Even without little ones, the charm of this holiday salad is a delightful touch that brings joy to everyone. After all, you’re never too old to find magic in Christmas, and this salad is an easy way to elevate your holiday meal.
So, let’s dive into how to create this enchanting Snowman Salad for your holiday table!
Why the Snowman Salad is a Holiday Hit
The Snowman Salad isn’t just a salad; it’s a centerpiece. With a neat ring of Spring Mix greens and a charming snowman made of mozzarella balls, this dish adds whimsy and creativity to your dinner table.
A Kid-Friendly Crowd Pleaser
If you’re hosting kids, this salad is a guaranteed hit! They’ll love the playful snowman with its peppercorn buttons, carrot nose, and basil scarf.
Plus, the interactive element of assembling the snowman makes this a fun project to prepare with your little helpers.
Easy to Adapt
Whether you’re serving a small family or a larger group, the Snowman Salad is easy to scale.
For an intimate dinner, make individual plates with a single mozzarella snowman as the centerpiece.
Hosting a big crowd? Assemble a large snowman using bigger mozzarella balls in the center of a salad bowl and sprinkle pearl-sized mozzarella for the “snowflakes.”
Step-by-Step: Assembling Your Snowman Salad
1. Set the Stage with Greens
Start by arranging Spring Mix salad greens in a neat circle around your plate. For added texture and flavor, mix in arugula or thinly sliced red onion.
2. Build Your Snowman
- Use Ciliegine mozzarella balls to form the snowman’s body. Slice a small flat edge on each ball to help them stay in place.
- Stack three balls in the center of the plate.
3. Add the Details
- Eyes, mouth, and buttons: Use black peppercorns. A toothpick can help you poke precise holes for placement.
- Nose: Slice a small carrot triangle and position it on the top ball.
- Scarf: Arrange two small basil leaves around the snowman’s neck.
4. Get Creative
Want to go the extra mile?
- Use a cherry tomato to carve a tiny heart for the snowman’s chest.
- Add thyme sprigs for arms to give your snowman even more character.
- Punch out mini cheese snowflakes from mozzarella slices using a straw for a magical snowy effect.
Make Ahead Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday
Hosting during the holidays can be hectic, so here are a few tips to make this salad stress-free:
- Prep in Advance: Assemble the mozzarella snowmen the night before. Cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge.
- Use Pre-Made Ingredients: Opt for a pre-washed Spring Mix and store-bought dressing. An Italian balsamic dressing pairs beautifully with the Snowman Salad.
Variations for Larger Gatherings
If you’re serving a crowd, switch to a big salad bowl format:
- Place a large mozzarella snowman in the center of a bed of greens.
- Use pearl-sized mozzarella balls as “snowflakes” scattered throughout the salad.
This adaptation ensures everyone gets to enjoy the festive charm of the Snowman Salad!
Enjoy!
The Snowman Salad is more than just food; it’s a celebration of the holiday spirit. Whether you’re plating individual salads or serving a large group, this adorable dish will bring smiles to your family and guests.
So, this Christmas, surprise your loved ones with a touch of whimsy, and maybe, if the weather cooperates, build a real snowman to match!
Happy Holidays!
Snowman Salad
Equipment
- 1 Straw
- 1 Chopstick
- 1 Toothpick
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Spring Mix Salad
- 3 Ciliegine Mozzarella Balls
- 2 Small Basil Leaves
- 1 Slice Carrot
- 1 Slice Cherry Tomato
- 9 Black Whole Peppercorns
- 2 Sprigs Thyme Optional
Instructions
- Slice a small amount off the bottom of each Mozzarella Ball so they sit flat on the plate
- Using the straw cut circles to use as the snowflakes out of the leftover slices from the balls – use the chop stick to push them out of the straw if needed
- Arrange lettuce in circle around the plate then position the three balls like a snowman in the middle
- Using the toothpick make holes and insert the peppercorns as a face and three buttons in the middle cheese ball
- Slice a small triangle of carrot and position as the snowman's nose
- Take two small basil leaves as the scarf
- Slice a small piece of the side of a cherry tomato and using a sharp pairing knife cut a small heart for the snowman
- Using the toothpick make holes on either side and use an inch long piece of thyme as the arms
- Position the snowflakes of cheese around the snowman and serve with your favorite Italian Balsamic Dressing