Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the crisp aroma of fresh apples mingled with the vibrant burst of pomegranate seeds, transporting me into the holiday spirit. This Apple Pomegranate Salad not only embodies the essence of festive gatherings but also brings a delightful balance of sweet and savory to the table. With luscious ingredients like crunchy candied nuts and seasonal fruits, this salad is a quick, gluten-free option that can be prepped in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re adding it to your Thanksgiving feast or bringing it to a potluck, this visually stunning dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Are you ready to make a salad that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? Why should you try this salad? Festive Vibes: This Apple Pomegranate Salad brings a burst of holiday cheer to your table, making it the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Crowd Pleaser: The combination of sweet and tart flavors paired with crunchy textures appeals to everyone, from kids to adults. Quick Preparation: It takes just 20 minutes to whip up this salad, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Versatile Serving: Perfect as a side for roasted meats or as a light lunch option, it suits every occasion beautifully. Don’t forget to check out my delicious Apple Feta Salad for another festive option! Apple Pomegranate Salad Ingredients For the Candied Nuts • Butter – Adds richness and is essential for coating the nuts; use oil for a vegan version. • Pecans (or Walnuts) – Provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; almonds can be a great substitute. • Pumpkin Seeds (Raw Pepitas) – Offer healthy fats and a satisfying crunch; can be replaced with sunflower seeds if desired. • Brown Sugar – Sweetens the nuts during cooking; maple syrup can give a different sweetness profile. For the Salad • Lettuce Mix – Forms the fresh base of the salad; spinach or arugula can be used for variety. • Apples (1-2, thinly sliced) – Add sweetness and crispness; pears make a tasty alternative. • Pomegranate Seeds – Provide bursts of tart flavor and beautiful color; swap with dried cherries or cranberries if needed. • Dried Cranberries – Contribute sweetness and chewiness; any other dried fruits can substitute. • Feta Cheese (crumbled) – Adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness; goat cheese or omitting it works for a vegan option. • Red Onion (thinly sliced) – Offers sharpness and depth; shallots can be a milder alternative. • Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors without making the dish overly salty. • Black Pepper – Provides a gentle kick of spice. For the Dressing • Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick to the dressing; whole grain mustard can provide more texture. • Maple Syrup or Honey – Sweetens the dressing beautifully; agave syrup serves well for a vegan alternative. • White Wine Vinegar – Provides acidity that balances the sweetness; lemon juice can work for a brighter flavor. • Olive Oil – A rich base for the dressing; consider any neutral oil or avocado oil for a different taste. This delightful Apple Pomegranate Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavors that will delight your guests this holiday season! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pomegranate Salad Step 1: Prepare Candied Nuts In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 1 cup of pecans and ½ cup of pumpkin seeds along with ¼ cup of brown sugar. Stir constantly for about 3-4 minutes until the nuts are fragrant and evenly coated in the sugar, turning a golden color. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray to cool completely. Step 2: Make Dressing In a jar, combine 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (or honey), and ¼ cup of white wine vinegar. Add ⅓ cup of olive oil, a pinch of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified, creating a smooth, creamy consistency that will beautifully coat your Apple Pomegranate Salad later. Step 3: Prep Salad Ingredients Prepare your fresh ingredients by thinly slicing 1-2 crisp apples and ¼ of a red onion. Next, carefully remove the arils from 1 pomegranate, enjoying the juicy seeds as you go. Set aside these beautiful ingredients, allowing their vibrant colors and flavors to shine through in your festive Apple Pomegranate Salad. Step 4: Assemble Salad In a large mixing bowl, place 6 cups of your selected lettuce mix. Gently add half of the sliced apples, red onions, pomegranate seeds, and a handful of dried cranberries. Drizzle some of the prepared dressing over the ingredients and toss carefully, ensuring an even distribution without bruising the delicate greens. Step 5: Serve Transfer the assembled Apple Pomegranate Salad to a serving platter for an impressive presentation. Top with the remaining ingredients, including the candied nuts and a crumbly portion of feta cheese. Finish with a light drizzle of the extra dressing, inviting everyone to dive into this luscious, festive dish that captures the holiday spirit! Helpful Tricks for Apple Pomegranate Salad Nutty Perfection: Keep an eye on the candied nuts as they can burn quickly. Stir continuously for even caramelization and to prevent sticking. Vibrant Presentation: Toss only half of the salad ingredients initially; this helps distribute flavors evenly and prevents sinking. Freshness Hack: Slice apples just before serving to avoid browning. A quick dip in lemon juice can also keep them crisp and vibrant. Dress Right: Coat the salad with just enough dressing to enhance flavors without overwhelming. Serve extra dressing on the side for guests who may want more. Balanced Flavor: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust sweetness or acidity based on your preference to enhance the Apple Pomegranate Salad experience. Make Ahead Options These vibrant Apple Pomegranate Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy days! You can prepare the candied nuts and dressing up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the cooled nuts in an airtight container at room temperature and keep the dressing in the fridge, giving it a good shake before using. Additionally, you can slice the apples and onions 24 hours ahead, placing the apples in a bowl with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the lettuce with the prepped ingredients, drizzle with dressing, and top with the candied nuts for a salad that’s just as delicious as the day it was made! Apple Pomegranate Salad Variations Feel free to customize this Apple Pomegranate Salad to fit your taste and dietary needs, creating a unique twist that excites your palate! Fruit Twist: Adding sliced pears or mandarin oranges brings an extra layer of sweetness and juiciness to the salad. These fruits can blend beautifully with the crisp apples and tart pomegranate seeds. Hearty Addition: For a protein boost, mix in some cooked quinoa or grains. This transforms the salad into a fulfilling main dish, ideal for lunch or a light dinner. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño to the dressing. It perfectly complements the sweetness and gives the salad an exciting punch. Nut Alternatives: If you want a different flavor, try using almonds or hazelnuts instead of pecans. Their unique nuttiness will add a new dimension to your candied nuts. Cheese Swap: For a different taste profile, replace crumbled feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it entirely for a vegan version. This simple change creates a distinct flavor experience while keeping the dish delicious. Green Substitute: Rather than a lettuce mix, use baby spinach or arugula for a slightly peppery flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the fruits. Dressing Variation: Experiment with adding ginger or garlic to the dressing for a flavorful twist. A hint of ginger can brighten up the salad, making every bite feel fresh. Citrus Zing: Incorporate some orange zest into the salad or dressing for a vibrant citrus aroma. This simple addition brightens the entire dish and enhances its festive appeal. If you’re looking for more delicious salads, consider trying my delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad or a refreshing Broccoli Crunch Salad. Each offers a unique flavor experience that complements any meal! How to Store and Freeze Apple Pomegranate Salad Fridge: The Apple Pomegranate Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if assembled without dressing. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Dressing: Store the dressing separately in a well-sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week. Shake before serving, as separation may occur. Candied Nuts: These can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, preserving their crunchiness for future salads or snacking! Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the candied nuts and dressing 1-2 days in advance for a quicker assembly on the day of serving. What to Serve with Festive Apple Pomegranate Salad Enhance the joy of your festive gathering with delightful sides and accompaniments that make this vibrant salad shine even brighter. Rosemary Roasted Chicken: Tender and aromatic, this dish complements the sweet and tart flavors of the salad perfectly, creating a beautifully balanced meal. Perfectly seasoned with herbs, it welcomes those comforting winter notes to your holiday table. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft and buttery, they offer a delightful contrast to the crisp textures of the salad. Everyone loves a good mashed potato, especially when slathered in gravy! Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, crispy treats add a comforting touch, perfect for scooping up salad. With garlicky aroma wafting from the oven, they’re always a crowd favorite! Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing drink enhances the festive theme and brightens up your meal with its effervescence. Sweet and bubbly, it ties together the juicy flavors of this holiday spread! Pecan Pie: A classic dessert to end your meal on a sweet note, balancing the salad’s flavors with rich, sugary goodness. This pie’s decadent filling and nutty crunch beautifully echo the candied nuts in your salad. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Filled with quinoa, cranberries, and spices, this dish provides warmth and seasonal flavors that pair harmoniously with the salad. It’s as beautiful to serve as it is delicious to eat, adding color and texture to your table! Brussels Sprouts Salad: With tart cranberries and nuts, this dish mirrors similar flavors present in the Apple Pomegranate Salad, making them a great duo. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, the crunchiness of Brussels sprouts really elevates your meal. Cheese Platter: Curate a variety of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits. This adds an elegant touch and perfect nibbling options as guests mingle. Pairing well with your Apple Pomegranate Salad, it offers diverse flavors and textures to savor. Apple Pomegranate Salad Recipe FAQs What type of apples should I use for this salad? Absolutely! I recommend using crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji apples. Their sweetness and crunch complement the tartness of the pomegranate seeds beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing different types for a flavor medley! How can I store the salad for later? To keep the Apple Pomegranate Salad fresh, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator without dressing, where it’ll last for up to 3 days. Use an airtight container to maintain its vibrant flavors. Make sure to add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens crisp! Can I freeze the Apple Pomegranate Salad? I don’t recommend freezing this salad since many of the ingredients—like fresh apples and pomegranate seeds—don’t freeze well. They may turn mushy and lose their delightful textures when thawed. Instead, prepare it fresh or make the dressing and candied nuts ahead of time for easy assembly. What if my pomegranate seeds are difficult to remove? Very! Sometimes, pomegranates can be tricky. To easily extract the seeds, cut the pomegranate in half and gently tap the back with a wooden spoon over a bowl; the seeds should fall right out! Just be careful to avoid splattering the juice. Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of? Definitely! This salad is gluten-free and can be adjusted for various diets. To make it vegan, substitute the butter with oil for the candied nuts and omit the feta. Always check for nut allergies, as this recipe includes pecans, pumpkin seeds, and the option for other nuts. How can I add more protein to this salad? For a heartier version, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu for a protein boost. These additions will complement the existing flavors while enhancing the salad’s nutritional profile, making it a satisfying meal in itself. Delicious Apple Pomegranate Salad for a Festive Table This Apple Pomegranate Salad is a festive dish that balances sweet and savory flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Candied Nuts2 tablespoons Butter Use oil for a vegan version.1 cup Pecans (or Walnuts) Almonds can be a great substitute.½ cup Pumpkin Seeds (Raw Pepitas) Can be replaced with sunflower seeds.¼ cup Brown Sugar Maple syrup can be used for a different sweetness.For the Salad6 cups Lettuce Mix Spinach or arugula can be used for variety.1-2 pieces Apples (thinly sliced) Pears can be a tasty alternative.1 cup Pomegranate Seeds Dried cherries or cranberries can be substituted.½ cup Dried Cranberries Any other dried fruits can substitute.½ cup Feta Cheese (crumbled) Omit for a vegan option.¼ cup Red Onion (thinly sliced) Shallots can be a milder alternative.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground.For the Dressing2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Whole grain mustard can provide more texture.2 tablespoons Maple Syrup or Honey Agave syrup can substitute for a vegan option.¼ cup White Wine Vinegar Lemon juice can be used for a brighter flavor.⅓ cup Olive Oil Any neutral oil or avocado oil can be used. Equipment Skilletjarmixing bowlparchment paper Method PreparationIn a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the pecans and pumpkin seeds along with brown sugar. Stir constantly for about 3-4 minutes until the nuts are fragrant and golden. Transfer to a parchment-lined tray to cool.In a jar, combine Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and white wine vinegar. Add olive oil, a pinch of kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Shake well until emulsified.Thinly slice the apples and red onion, and remove the arils from the pomegranate.In a large mixing bowl, add the lettuce mix and half of the apples, red onions, pomegranate seeds, and dried cranberries. Drizzle some dressing over and toss gently.Transfer the salad to a serving platter, top with remaining ingredients, including candied nuts and feta cheese, and drizzle with extra dressing. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg NotesKeep an eye on the candied nuts to prevent burning. Toss only half of the salad ingredients initially for even flavor distribution. Slice apples right before serving to avoid browning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
