Pomegranate and Pear Salad
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Total Time
15 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
226 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Salad
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Cuisine
American
Pomegranate and Pear Salad
Description
Pomegranate and Pear Salad features a base of baby spinach leaves mixed with ripe sliced pears and ruby pomegranate seeds that add bursts of juicy sweetness and color. Crumbled goat cheese introduces a creamy, tangy element, while slivered almonds contribute a nutty crunch. The salad is tossed in a dressing made from apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper for a well-rounded vinaigrette that complements the fruit and cheese.
The textures range from tender leafy greens to crisp pears and crunchy nuts, while the flavors balance sweetness, acidity, and creaminess. The preparation is straightforward: the ingredients are combined in a bowl and drizzled with the freshly whisked dressing just before serving, ensuring vibrant flavor and texture. This fresh salad works well as a side or a light meal base.
It pairs nicely with added proteins such as grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to complete a meal. Variations can include substituting apples for pears or using different nuts like walnuts or pistachios. The dressing can be made ahead and stored chilled for a couple of days; whisk before using. The salad is best served immediately after dressing to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
Ingredients
- 8 cups baby spinach leaves , or mixed greens or arugula
- 2 large pear cored and sliced, ripe
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 ounces goat cheese crumbled, or feta or gorgonzola cheese
- 1/2 cup almonds slivered, or walnuts or pistachios
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (or champagne vinegar)
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons honey
- salt to taste, freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, freshly ground
Instructions
- Place all salad ingredients in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing by whisking all ingredients together.
- Drizzle dressing over salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
- The dressing can be prepared up to two days in advance and whisked before serving.
- Adding cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp makes this salad a complete meal.
- Pear can be swapped with sliced apples for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 226 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 226kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 22g | 7% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Trans Fat | 0.002g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 8mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 151mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 415mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 14g | 28% |
| Vitamin A | 3813IU | 76% |
| Vitamin C | 16mg | 18% |
| Calcium | 120mg | 12% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.