Perfect Fall Salad

Fall is the perfect season to embrace fresh, vibrant flavors that celebrate the harvest. This Fall Pomegranate Salad combines crisp greens, juicy pomegranate arils, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese with a tangy homemade dressing that brings it all together. It’s a show-stopping dish perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Seasonal Ingredients: Packed with autumn favorites like pomegranate, pears, and walnuts.
• Quick to Prepare: Comes together in just 15 minutes.
• Healthy and Delicious: A perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients.
• Customizable: Easily adapt to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and kale)
• 1 cup pomegranate arils (seeds)
• 1 medium pear, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
• ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make Fall Pomegranate Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, pomegranate arils, pear slices, cheese, nuts, and red onion if using.
2. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together olive oil, pomegranate juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Dress and Serve

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
2. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Make It Vegan: Swap goat cheese for a vegan cheese or omit it entirely. Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
• Add Protein: Turn this salad into a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Switch the Nuts: Use almonds, hazelnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Substitute Greens: Use romaine or butter lettuce for a milder base, or add more robust greens like radicchio.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad will stay fresh for 1-2 days, and the dressing can last up to a week in the refrigerator.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare all ingredients in advance but wait to slice the pear and add the dressing until just before serving to avoid browning and sogginess.

Pairing Suggestions

• Main Dishes: Pair with roasted chicken, salmon, or a hearty vegetarian tart.
• Beverages: Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water infused with citrus.

Fall Pomegranate Salad with Homemade Dressing

Fall is the perfect season to embrace fresh, vibrant flavors that celebrate the harvest. This Fall Pomegranate Salad combines crisp greens, juicy pomegranate arils, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese with a tangy homemade dressing that brings it all together. It’s a show-stopping dish perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat.

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Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups mixed greens such as arugula, spinach, and kale
• 1 cup pomegranate arils seeds
• 1 medium pear thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
• ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion optional
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup adjust for sweetness
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, pomegranate arils, pear slices, cheese, nuts, and red onion if using.
• Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.
• In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together olive oil, pomegranate juice, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
• Toss lightly to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

This Fall Pomegranate Salad is a delightful celebration of seasonal produce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a healthy lunch option, this salad is sure to impress. The homemade dressing ties it all together with a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Give it a try and let the taste of fall shine on your table!