Description
A fresh and vibrant Pear Pomegranate Salad combining crisp mixed baby greens with the sweetness of ripe pears, tangy pomegranate arils, crunchy glazed pecans, and creamy crumbled feta, all dressed in a flavorful Maple Dijon Vinaigrette. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish, this salad is quick to assemble and packed with contrasting textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 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
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the greens: Place the mixed baby greens in a large, shallow bowl or spread them evenly on a salad platter to form the base for the salad.
- Add red onions and pears: Sprinkle the thinly sliced red onion over the greens evenly. Then arrange the pear slices thoughtfully in small groups of 3 to 4 slices each on top of the greens for appealing presentation.
- Top with pomegranate, pecans, and feta: Evenly sprinkle the pomegranate arils, roughly chopped glazed pecans, and crumbled feta cheese over the salad to add bursts of sweetness, crunch, and creaminess.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle some of the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the salad just before serving, ensuring an even coating without sogginess. Serve the remaining vinaigrette on the side so guests can add more as desired.
Notes
- Use ripe pears for maximum flavor and sweetness; Bartlett or Anjou varieties work well.
- Glazed pecans add a sweet crunch, but toasted pecans can be substituted if preferred.
- The Maple Dijon Vinaigrette can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated for up to one week.
- For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese or omit it entirely.
- To enhance the salad’s color and flavor, chill all ingredients prior to assembly.
