Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, let me introduce you to my beloved Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad. This salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to impress at a weeknight dinner, this recipe will surely steal the show. The combination of juicy pears, crunchy walnuts, and tart pomegranate arils creates a symphony of taste that’s simply irresistible.

What makes this salad even more special is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with almost any meal and can be prepared in just 20 minutes! Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it not only tasty but also a healthy choice for your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this salad fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet and savory balance makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the components ahead of time for stress-free entertaining—just toss before serving!
• Colorful Presentation: Its vibrant colors make it a stunning addition to any holiday table or casual dinner.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce and healthy fats, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in our Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad.

For the Salad

• 2/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted)
• 3/4 cup pomegranate arils
• 3 oz feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 2 Bartlett pears (firm but ripe, cored and sliced)
• 9 oz baby spinach

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Change the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free option.
• Mix Up the Greens: Try using arugula or kale instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with Fruits: Substitute apples or citrus segments when pears are out of season.

How to Make Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by whisking together all dressing ingredients in a bowl until they’re well blended. This step is key because it ensures every bite of your salad is bursting with flavor!

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced pears, pomegranate arils, chopped walnuts or pecans, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries. Make sure to mix them gently so you don’t bruise the spinach or break up the pear slices too much.

Step 3: Toss with Dressing

Drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with that luscious dressing. This helps every ingredient shine while keeping everything fresh and crunchy!

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Your Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad is ready to serve! Present it immediately for maximum freshness. Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or light main course — I promise everyone will love it!

Pro Tips for Making Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Creating the perfect salad is all about balance and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to help you make this delightful dish shine!

• Choose ripe pears: Selecting firm but ripe Bartlett pears ensures a sweet and juicy bite that complements the tangy pomegranate and feta.

• Toast your nuts: Toasting walnuts or pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delicious crunch, making each mouthful even more enjoyable.

• Make the dressing ahead of time: Preparing the dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more robust taste when you serve the salad.

• Add the dressing just before serving: To keep your salad fresh and crisp, drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving. This prevents wilting and maintains that delightful crunch.

• Experiment with cheese alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How to Serve Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

This vibrant salad not only looks stunning but also tastes amazing! Presenting it nicely can elevate its appeal even further. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped mint or basil can add an aromatic touch that brightens up your salad.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds brings a nutty flavor and an appealing texture that contrasts well with the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa pilaf: This fluffy grain dish is packed with protein and pairs wonderfully with the salad’s textures, making it a hearty side option.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the flavors of the salad while offering a satisfying contrast.
• Grilled chicken or tofu: Serving grilled chicken or marinated tofu alongside provides additional protein and makes for a well-rounded meal.
• Whole grain bread: A slice of crusty whole grain bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing while adding an extra layer of heartiness to your meal.

Enjoy this Pear, Pomegranate, and Spinach Salad as part of your next festive gathering or even as a light weekday dinner—either way, it’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad is not only vibrant and delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh greens.
• However, you can freeze the dressing in ice cube trays if you want to save it for future salads.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad, as it’s best enjoyed cold.
• If desired, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to take off the chill.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad.

Can I make a Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad without feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply omit it. The salad will still be delicious and refreshing!

How long does a Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last for 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it!

Can I add other ingredients to my Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other nuts, seeds, or seasonal fruits that you love.

Is this Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The components of this salad can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping healthy lunches or quick dinners.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad as much as I do! It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful mix of flavors that brighten up any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a casual weeknight, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking!