If you’re craving a salad that feels like a celebration in every bite, look no further than this Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe. The blend of crisp, juicy pears, jewel-like pomegranate arils, tangy feta, and crunchy glazed pecans tossed with a sweet and tangy vinaigrette creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It’s a refreshing dish that balances sweetness and savory notes beautifully, making it an ideal centerpiece for any meal, or a delightful side that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each bringing a unique flavor or texture that makes the salad so irresistible. Freshness and balance are the cornerstones of this recipe, so selecting quality produce and toppings will truly elevate your dish.
- Mixed baby greens: A tender, fresh base that provides a mild, slightly peppery flavor and vibrant color.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle sharpness that cuts through the sweetness of the fruit.
- Ripe pears: Unpeeled, cored, and thinly sliced for juicy sweetness and softness that complements the salad’s crunch.
- Pomegranate arils: These bursts of bright, tart juice add a gorgeous jewel-like sparkle and a refreshing bite.
- Glazed pecans: Roughly chopped for a sweet and crunchy textural contrast to the tender greens and creamy cheese.
- Crumbled feta: Adds a touch of salty creaminess that ties the flavors together beautifully.
- Maple Dijon Vinaigrette: A luscious dressing bringing a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and a gentle mustard kick.
How to Make Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Salad Base
Start by placing your mixed baby greens in a large, shallow bowl or spread them out on a pretty salad platter. The fresh greens serve as the perfect canvas to build a colorful and flavorful salad.
Step 2: Add the Red Onions and Pears
Sprinkle the thinly sliced red onion evenly over the greens. Then, arrange the pear slices in charming little groups of three or four, which helps make serving easier and adds a lovely visual appeal.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Pomegranate Arils, Pecans, and Feta
Evenly scatter the pomegranate arils, glazed pecans, and crumbled feta all over the top. This layering not only looks beautiful but ensures every bite has a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Drizzle and Serve
Lightly drizzle some of the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. Serve the remaining vinaigrette on the side so everyone can add more to their taste.
How to Serve Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
Adding an extra sprinkle of toasted pecans or a few fresh pomegranate seeds on top right before serving can boost the salad’s crunch and visual appeal. Fresh herbs like mint or basil also add a fresh twist that complements the fruity flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs exceptionally well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a warm bowl of butternut squash soup. Its bright, fresh flavors balance heartier, richer mains, making it a versatile accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls to showcase its stunning colors. Alternatively, layer the components in a large Mason jar for easy-packed lunches or picnics, with dressing separate until ready to toss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep it as fresh as possible, hold off on adding the vinaigrette until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not suitable for freezing, as the delicate textures of the greens and fruits will become mushy after thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy any leftovers cold or at room temperature shortly after taking them out of the fridge.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pears with another fruit?
Absolutely! While ripe pears bring a unique sweetness and texture, you can use apples or even sliced figs for a different but equally delicious twist.
Is there a vegan alternative for feta in this salad?
Yes, you can substitute vegan feta or omit it entirely. Adding toasted nuts can help compensate for the creamy, salty element that feta provides.
How long can I keep the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
Can this salad be served as a main dish?
While it’s traditionally a side salad, adding a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn it into a satisfying main course.
What type of pears work best for this salad?
Look for ripe but firm varieties like Bartlett or Bosc pears. They offer the perfect balance of sweetness and texture without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to delight your taste buds and impress friends or family, this Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s fresh, flavorful, and so easy to prepare that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Give it a go, and watch this salad become a beloved staple on your table.
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Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Pear Pomegranate Salad featuring mixed baby greens, ripe pears, sweet-tart pomegranate arils, glazed pecans, and creamy crumbled feta, all brought together with a luscious Maple Dijon Vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or as a colorful side salad to any meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 ounces mixed baby greens
- ¾ cup thinly sliced red onion (cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1 to 2 ripe pears (unpeeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- ½ cup glazed pecans (roughly chopped)
- â…“ cup crumbled feta cheese
Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
- 1 recipe Maple Dijon Vinaigrette (typically made with maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper)
Instructions
- Assemble the greens: Place the mixed baby greens in a large, shallow bowl or on a salad platter, creating a vibrant base for the salad.
- Add red onion: Evenly sprinkle the thinly sliced red onions over the greens to add a mild sharpness and crunch.
- Arrange pear slices: Thinly slice the ripe pears and arrange them in groups of three or four slices across the salad for balanced distribution and visual appeal.
- Sprinkle toppings: Evenly distribute the pomegranate arils, glazed pecans, and crumbled feta cheese over the salad to add sweetness, crunch, and creaminess respectively.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle some of the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the assembled salad to lightly coat the ingredients.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately with the remaining Maple Dijon Vinaigrette on the side for guests to add more if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears so they hold their shape when sliced.
- Glazed pecans can be substituted with candied walnuts or plain pecans if preferred.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Maple Dijon Vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- To keep the salad fresh longer, add the vinaigrette just before serving.
