Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with color and flavor, look no further than this Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad! It’s the kind of dish that brings joy to any table, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. The combination of sweet pears and tart pomegranate seeds offers a delightful contrast that makes every bite exciting. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again!

This salad is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. With fresh spinach, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy dressing, it’s a wholesome choice that everyone will enjoy. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy evenings or those family get-togethers when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweetness of pears and cranberries paired with the crunch of nuts makes this salad a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dressing in advance and toss everything together just before serving.
• Colorful Presentation: With vibrant colors from the pomegranate and spinach, this salad is as beautiful as it is tasty.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for plenty of substitutions, so you can adjust based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad, you’ll need some simple staples that add great flavor and texture. Here’s what to grab:

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

One of the best things about this Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the nuts: If you prefer another type of nut or have allergies, try using almonds or sunflower seeds instead.
• Add more fruits: Toss in some sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges for added sweetness.
• Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese works wonderfully too!
• Make it grainy: For added substance, throw in some cooked quinoa or farro to turn this salad into a full meal.

How to Make Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Step 1: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This step is essential as it allows all the flavors to blend perfectly. A well-balanced dressing makes your salad shine!

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach, sliced pears, pomegranate arils, dried cranberries, walnuts (or pecans), and crumbled feta cheese. This colorful mix not only looks appealing but also provides various textures in each bite.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Drizzle your freshly made dressing over the salad ingredients. Use just enough to coat everything lightly—too much dressing can overpower these lovely flavors! Gently toss all ingredients together so every piece gets its fair share of that delicious dressing.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Once tossed to perfection, serve your Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad immediately. Enjoy this delightful dish while fresh; it’s at its best right after preparation!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this wonderful salad at your next meal! Whether it’s a quick lunch or an impressive side dish at dinner parties, it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Creating the perfect Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate it even further!

• Choose ripe pears: Using firm but ripe Bartlett pears ensures a sweet and juicy bite that complements the other flavors beautifully.

• Toast the nuts: Toasting walnuts or pecans before adding them to the salad enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to each mouthful.

• Use fresh pomegranate arils: Fresh pomegranate arils pack a juicy pop of flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen arils work too; just thaw them before use.

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the dressing and chop your ingredients in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the honey or apple cider vinegar to suit your taste preference. A little extra sweetness or tang can make all the difference!

How to Serve Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Presenting this vibrant salad is just as enjoyable as making it! Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, here are some ideas to make it shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh mint or basil over the top for an aromatic touch.
• Microgreens: Adding microgreens not only looks beautiful but also provides an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the dish with a zesty kick!

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A hearty quinoa pilaf with herbs and spices serves as a great side that complements the salad’s freshness while adding protein.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring warmth and earthiness that pair wonderfully with this bright salad.

• Grilled Chicken: For those who enjoy some protein, grilled chicken breast marinated in herbs makes a fantastic addition alongside this salad.

• Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips creates an inviting appetizer that balances well with the salad’s flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad will not only be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy making this dish your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Use within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• If possible, store the dressing separately to prevent the greens from wilting.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the spinach.
• However, you can freeze individual ingredients like toasted walnuts or pecans if desired.
• Make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating

• No reheating is necessary as this salad is served cold.
• If you prefer your spinach warm, consider sautéing it briefly before adding it to the salad mix.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad:

Can I substitute feta cheese in the Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad?

Yes! You can use crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer a different flavor or need a dairy-free option.

How long will the Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad last?

If stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve!

What are some variations I can try with the Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad?

Feel free to add other nuts like almonds or pecans, swap out cranberries for raisins, or incorporate other seasonal fruits such as apples or oranges for a delightful twist!

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

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time and assemble them as needed for fresh servings throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad is truly special with its vibrant colors and delightful flavors. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoying at home any day of the week. I hope you have fun making this recipe and that it brings joy to your table. Enjoy every bite!