Name: Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: For Salad:; ⅔ cup Walnuts; ¾ cup pomegranate arils; 3 oz feta cheese; ½ cup dried cranberries; 2 Bartlett pears; 9 oz baby spinach; For Dressing:; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1½ tbsp honey; 1 tsp Dion mustard; salt and pepper

This pear, pomegranate and spinach salad recipe combines the freshness of fruit with the earthy flavours of spinach and feta. The tangy dressing ties everything together, making this a perfect side dish or healthy lunch option.

Photos of Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad Recipe

While most of these ingredients are readily available, you might need to seek out pomegranate arils. These are the juicy seeds found inside a pomegranate. You can often find them pre-packaged in the produce section of the supermarket.

Ingredients for Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Walnuts: These add a nice crunch and omega-3 fatty acids to the salad.

Pomegranate arils: They give a juicy burst of flavor and are packed with antioxidants.

Feta cheese: This is a briny, tangy cheese that adds a nice contrast to the fruits.

Dried cranberries: They add a sweet and tart element to the salad.

Bartlett pears: They are sweet and slightly tart, perfect for salads.

Baby spinach: It's tender and milder than mature spinach.

Apple cider vinegar: It gives a tangy flavor to the dressing.

Olive oil: It's a healthy fat that helps balance the vinegar in the dressing.

Honey: It sweetens the dressing.

Dijon mustard: It adds a tangy and spicy kick to the dressing.

Salt and pepper: These seasonings enhance the flavor of the salad.

One reader, Hally Nolan says:

This pear, pomegranate, and spinach salad recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the pears and pomegranate arils perfectly complements the earthy spinach, while the dressing ties it all together. It's a refreshing and healthy option that's become a regular in my meal rotation. Highly recommended!

Hally Nolan

Techniques Required for Making This Salad

How to prepare the dressing: Whisk together the apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well blended.

How to toast walnuts: Place the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.

How to deseed a pomegranate: Cut the pomegranate in half and hold it over a bowl of water. Use a spoon to gently tap the back of the pomegranate to release the arils into the water. The arils will sink to the bottom, and the pith will float to the top for easy separation.

How to slice pears: Wash and dry the pears, then slice them thinly using a sharp knife.

How to assemble the salad: Place the baby spinach in a large salad bowl, then add the toasted walnuts, pomegranate arils, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and sliced pears. Drizzle with the desired amount of dressing and toss gently to evenly coat the salad ingredients.

How to serve: Serve the pear, pomegranate, and spinach salad immediately to enjoy it at its freshest.

How To Make Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Tossed in a simple honey mustard dressing, this spinach salad is a refreshing meal that comes with the crunch of pecans and the slight tang of feta cheese.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salad:

⅔cupwalnuts,or pecans, chopped, toasted
¾cuppomegranate arils
3ozfeta cheese,crumbled
½cupdried cranberries
2Bartlett pears,firm but ripe, cored and sliced
9ozbaby spinach

For Dressing:

¼cupapple cider vinegar
3tbspextra virgin olive oil
1½tbsphoney
1tspDion mustard
salt and pepper,to taste

Instructions

Whisk all dressing ingredients in a bowl to blend well.
Place all salad ingredients in a large salad bowl, drizzle with the desired amount of dressing, then toss to evenly coat.
Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 218.09kcal
Fat: 10.76g
Saturated Fat: 3.15g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.17g
Carbohydrates: 28.73g
Fiber: 4.52g
Sugar: 20.71g
Protein: 4.01g
Cholesterol: 12.62mg
Sodium: 406.20mg
Calcium: 125.28mg
Potassium: 384.72mg
Iron: 1.64mg
Vitamin A: 217.97µg
Vitamin C: 16.97mg

Technique Tip for Preparing the Perfect Spinach Salad

When preparing the pears for this salad, make sure to slice them thinly and evenly. This not only makes the salad easier to eat, but also ensures that each bite has a good balance of flavors. Additionally, if you're not serving the salad immediately, consider tossing the pear slices in a little bit of lemon juice. This will prevent them from browning and keep them looking fresh and appetizing.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Plan ahead: Prepping ingredients in advance and organizing your cooking space can save time and make the process more efficient.

Multitask: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components simultaneously, such as preparing the dressing while chopping the salad ingredients.

Use pre-cut and pre-washed: Opt for pre-cut fruits and pre-washed greens to minimize prep time and streamline the salad-making process.

Invest in quality tools: High-quality kitchen tools and sharp knives can make chopping and prepping ingredients quicker and easier.

Streamline the process: Arrange ingredients and tools in a logical order to minimize movement and maximize efficiency while cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad Recipe

pomegranate arils - Substitute with diced strawberries: Strawberries provide a similar burst of sweetness and juiciness to the salad, complementing the other flavors well.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy and creamy flavor similar to feta, adding a delicious richness to the salad.
dried cranberries - Substitute with golden raisins: Golden raisins offer a sweet and slightly tart flavor, providing a similar contrast to the salad as dried cranberries.
bartlett pears - Substitute with Honeycrisp apples: Honeycrisp apples have a sweet and crisp texture, adding a delightful crunch and juiciness to the salad.
baby spinach - Substitute with arugula: Arugula has a peppery and slightly bitter taste, which can provide a different but complementary flavor profile to the salad.

Best Way to Present This Pear and Pomegranate Salad

Elevate the plating: Arrange the salad in a visually appealing manner, using the vibrant colors of the pomegranate arils, green spinach, and the slices of pear to create an eye-catching display on the plate.
Incorporate texture: Add a touch of elegance by sprinkling the walnuts and dried cranberries strategically over the salad, creating a contrast in textures and adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Highlight the freshness: Ensure that the spinach leaves and pears are fresh and vibrant, showcasing the quality of the ingredients and emphasizing the natural flavors of the salad.
Balance the flavors: Drizzle the dressing with precision, ensuring that it enhances the overall taste without overpowering the delicate flavors of the pears, pomegranate, and spinach.
Emphasize the seasonal ingredients: Showcase the seasonal nature of the salad by incorporating the pomegranate arils and pears, highlighting their peak freshness and flavor.
Create a harmonious composition: Pay attention to the placement of each element, aiming for a balanced and harmonious composition that reflects the skill and artistry of the chef.

Essential Tools for Making a Spinach Salad

Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically made of metal loops or wires.
Salad bowl: A large, deep bowl used for mixing and serving salads.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for slicing and cutting ingredients.
Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Salad tongs: A utensil used for tossing and serving salads.
Small bowl: A smaller-sized bowl used for mixing and preparing smaller quantities of ingredients.
Whisk: A utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically made of metal loops or wires.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Salad

This salad is best served immediately after tossing with the dressing to ensure the spinach leaves stay crisp and fresh.
If you have any leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. However, keep in mind that the spinach leaves may wilt and become soggy over time.
To store the dressing separately, pour it into a jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Give it a good shake before drizzling over the salad.
It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the spinach leaves and pears will lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can:
- Toast the walnuts and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Seed the pomegranate and store the arils in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Crumble the feta cheese and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Wash and dry the spinach leaves, then store them in a sealed plastic bag with a slightly damp paper towel in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prepare the dressing and store it separately in the refrigerator.
- When ready to serve, slice the pears and assemble the salad components, tossing with the dressing just before serving.

Random Fact About Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad

Pomegranate is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which can help improve digestion and boost overall health.

Is Making This Salad Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This pear, pomegranate and spinach salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are generally affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. Pears and spinach are reasonably priced, and the addition of pomegranate arils and walnuts adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The dressing ingredients are also commonly stocked in kitchens, making this recipe budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pear, pomegranate, and spinach salad recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced dish. The salad is packed with:

Antioxidants from the pomegranate arils and dried cranberries
Healthy fats from the walnuts and feta cheese
Fiber and vitamins from the spinach and pears

The dressing, made with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard, is a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings that often contain added sugars and preservatives.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be adjusted to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of feta cheese to lower the overall saturated fat content
Use a smaller portion of dried cranberries to decrease the added sugar
Increase the proportion of spinach to boost the salad's nutrient density

To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or tofu, to make it a more complete meal
Incorporate additional colorful vegetables, like shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
Experiment with different types of greens, such as kale or arugula, to diversify the flavor and nutrient profile
Use a light sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, like mint or basil, to add a burst of flavor without relying on excessive dressing

By making these minor adjustments and additions, you can transform this already healthy salad into an even more nutrient-dense and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling energized and nourished.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Salad Recipe

This pear, pomegranate, and spinach salad recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the pears and pomegranate arils, the creaminess of the feta cheese, and the crunch of the walnuts create a harmonious blend. The dressing, with its tangy apple cider vinegar and hint of sweetness from honey, complements the salad perfectly. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing. It's a wonderful choice for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish for a special occasion.

Enhance Your Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the salad.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a refreshing and light side dish for the salad.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tangy carrots roasted to caramelized perfection, adding a burst of flavor to complement the fruity salad.

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Medley: Nutty quinoa mixed with a variety of roasted vegetables, providing a hearty and wholesome accompaniment to the vibrant salad.

Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sticky honey glaze, offering a delightful contrast to the crispness of the salad.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Pear and Pomegranate Salad

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The roasted butternut squash adds a depth of flavor that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: These colorful and flavorful skewers are perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of tender grilled chicken and a variety of fresh vegetables makes for a delicious and healthy meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This tropical-inspired dessert is a refreshing and healthy treat. The sweet mango and creamy coconut milk pair perfectly with the nutritious chia seeds for a satisfying end to any meal.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With This Salad

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, cheesy sauce. Pair it with your favorite type of pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a flavorful and colorful stir fry with tender strips of beef and an assortment of fresh vegetables. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light dessert that's perfect for a summer treat.

Why trust this Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring fresh spinach, juicy pears, and vibrant pomegranate arils. The addition of walnuts and feta cheese provides a satisfying crunch and savory notes. The dressing, made with apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of honey, perfectly complements the salad. With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this salad is a refreshing and nutritious choice. Trust the harmonious blend of ingredients to elevate your dining experience.

Share your thoughts on the Pear, Pomegranate and Spinach Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even better!

FAQ:

Can I substitute the pomegranate arils with another fruit?

Yes, you can substitute the pomegranate arils with fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a similar burst of flavor and texture.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using it on the salad.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Certainly! If you're not a fan of feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile in the salad.

How do I know if the pears are ripe enough for the salad?

To check if the pears are ripe, gently press near the stem. If it gives slightly, it's ripe and ready to use in the salad. If it's too firm, let it ripen at room temperature for a day or two.

Can I add grilled chicken to make it a complete meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken would be a fantastic addition to this salad, adding protein and making it a satisfying and complete meal. Just slice the grilled chicken and add it on top of the assembled salad.