Holiday Pomegranate Spinach Salad

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Holiday Pomegranate Spinach Salad

Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Imagine a vibrant salad that sparkles with the jewel-like brilliance of pomegranate seeds, nestled among fresh spinach and crunchy nuts. This Holiday Pomegranate Spinach Salad is a festive delight that will brighten up any holiday table!

 

Ingredients

  • 6 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or from a package)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 apple, diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the Walnuts:
    In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. This dressing adds a rich, tangy sweetness to the salad.
  3. Assemble the Salad:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach, pomegranate seeds, toasted walnuts, feta cheese, sliced red onion, diced apple, and dried cranberries. It’s a colorful and festive mix.
  4. Dress and Toss:
    Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated in that delicious flavor.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    Transfer the salad to a beautiful serving platter. This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a refreshing side dish.

Tips for the Perfect Holiday Pomegranate Spinach Salad

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and toast the walnuts a day in advance. Store them separately and assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Add Protein: For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa. This makes it a complete meal.
  • Experiment with Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile.
  • Use Seasonal Fruits: Feel free to swap the apple for other seasonal fruits like pears or mandarins for variety.
  • Pomegranate Tips: If using fresh pomegranates, cut them in half and gently tap the back with a spoon to release the seeds. You can also buy pre-packaged seeds for convenience.
  • Presentation: For a stunning presentation, layer the ingredients in a clear bowl or plate, showcasing the vibrant colors of the salad.
  • Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust the dressing according to your preference. If you like it sweeter, add more maple syrup; if you prefer it tangier, increase the balsamic vinegar.
  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container without dressing to keep the spinach fresh. Dress it just before serving.

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