The Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is an absolute showstopper that brings together the freshest autumn flavors in one vibrant bowl. Crisp baby greens, juicy slices of pear, tart pomegranate arils, crunchy glazed pecans, and creamy crumbled feta all come alive under the magic of a sweet and tangy maple dijon vinaigrette. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that feels both elegant and wonderfully comforting — ideal for a quick lunch, a festive gathering, or even a light dinner. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that each bring their own special touch to the dish. Every element contributes either a burst of flavor, texture, or color to make this salad truly unforgettable.
- Mixed baby greens: The fresh, tender base that adds a mild flavor and lovely greens to the plate.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp but slightly sweet bite that contrasts beautifully with the fruit.
- Ripe pears: Unpeeled and thinly sliced, these provide juicy sweetness and a pleasant softness.
- Pomegranate arils: These ruby-red seeds bring a juicy pop of tartness and eye-catching color.
- Glazed pecans: Roughly chopped for a crunchy, sweet nuttiness that elevates the salad.
- Crumbled feta: Adds a creamy, tangy element that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pears and pecans.
- Maple Dijon Vinaigrette: The delightful dressing that ties all the flavors together with its sweet and tangy charm.
How to Make Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Greens and Toppings
Start by placing the mixed baby greens in a large shallow bowl or on a beautiful salad platter. This will be your fresh foundation. Next, sprinkle the thinly sliced red onions evenly over the greens — their sharpness adds complexity right from the start.
Step 2: Add the Pear Slices
Arrange the pear slices in small groups of three or four atop the salad. Keeping them grouped provides a nice visual effect and makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the sweet juiciness in every bite.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Pomegranate, Pecans, and Feta
Now it’s time to scatter the pomegranate arils, glazed pecans, and crumbled feta evenly across the salad. These vibrant colors and varied textures bring life and excitement to the dish, creating a well-rounded eating experience.
Step 4: Drizzle the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
Finally, drizzle some of the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the salad to lightly coat the ingredients with its luscious sweet and tangy flavor. Save the remaining dressing to serve on the side, so your guests can add more as they wish.
How to Serve Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, consider garnishing with a few whole glazed pecans or a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or mint. This not only adds freshness but can upgrade the salad’s appearance making it irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or salmon for a well-rounded meal. It also works beautifully alongside savory breads or a cheese platter, adding a fresh, fruity element that balances rich, heavier flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Pear Pomegranate Salad in individual clear glass bowls or on rustic wooden platters for a charming presentation. You could also layer the ingredients in a large trifle bowl for a stunning centerpiece that shows off all the colors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately to keep everything fresh and crisp. Keep the dressing in an airtight container and toss the salad just before serving the next day.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to its mix of fresh greens and juicy fruit. Freezing will alter the texture and flavor, especially of the pears and pomegranate seeds.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it chilled or at room temperature to savor all the contrasting textures and flavors perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of greens?
Absolutely! While mixed baby greens offer the perfect tender texture, you can substitute with spinach, arugula, or even kale for a heartier variation.
What kind of pears work best?
Look for ripe but firm pears such as Bartlett or Bosc. They should be juicy but not mushy to hold up well in the salad.
Is it okay to substitute pecans with another nut?
Definitely. Walnuts or almonds make great alternatives if pecans aren’t your favorite or if you have allergies.
How do I make the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette is simply made by whisking together pure maple syrup, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. It’s the star that brings this salad to life.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese to keep all the delicious flavors while making it vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
You have to try the Pear Pomegranate Salad with Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe because it truly is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that are easy to prepare yet impressive to serve. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something healthy, beautiful, and totally satisfying. Trust me, once this salad is on your table, it won’t be long before it becomes a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
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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
This Pear Pomegranate Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish combining crisp mixed baby greens, sweet ripe pears, tangy pomegranate arils, crunchy glazed pecans, and creamy crumbled feta. Topped with a zesty Maple Dijon Vinaigrette, it’s perfect for a quick, elegant side or a light meal, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
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
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: Place the mixed baby greens in a large, shallow bowl or arrange them attractively on a salad platter to create the foundation of your salad.
- Add Red Onion: Evenly sprinkle the thinly sliced red onion pieces over the greens, distributing them for bursts of sharp, tangy flavor.
- Arrange Pear Slices: Thinly slice the ripe pears, keeping the peel on, and arrange them in neat groups of 3 or 4 slices each over the salad for a sweet, juicy contrast.
- Top with Pomegranate, Pecans, and Feta: Sprinkle the pomegranate arils, glazed pecans, and crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad, adding texture, sweetness, and creaminess.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle some of the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette over the salad right before serving, and offer the remaining vinaigrette on the side for guests to add more to taste.
Notes
- Use ripe pears that are firm yet give slightly to touch for the best texture and sweetness.
- Glazed pecans can be purchased or homemade by tossing pecans with brown sugar and butter, then toasting briefly.
- The salad is best served immediately to maintain freshness and prevent the greens from wilting.
- Maple Dijon Vinaigrette can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a nut-free version, substitute pecans with toasted pumpkin seeds or omit entirely.
