How to make Winter Salad with Orange & Pomegranate

Winter Salad with Orange & Pomegranate

The Winter Salad with Orange & Pomegranate is a vibrant dish inspired by a journey through the Mediterranean during winter. It features the harmonious combination of sweet, tangy oranges and deep, tart pomegranate seeds, creating a symphony of flavors that perfectly balance each other. This salad captures the essence of winter produce, offering freshness with a burst of citrusy sweetness complemented by lush notes from the pomegranate. After discovering this dish, the author successfully recreated it and wishes to share this culinary delight, inviting the warmth and radiance of distant lands into your home.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Spanish

Servings 8 people

Calories 356 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Crack of pepper
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Salad Ingredients

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Sea salt and pepper
• 1 large pomegranate
• 1/2 cup feta cheese
• 3 oranges sliced
• 4 cups romaine lettuce

Instructions

 

• Combine the orange zest, olive oil, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
• Combine the baby spinach, oranges, pomegranate, cheese, and chopped almonds in a medium mixing basin.
• Toss the salad with the vinaigrette until it is evenly covered.
• Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Keyword almonds, apple cider vinegar, pomegranate

Cooking tips about Winter Salad with Orange & Pomegranate

• Choose the Right Ingredients: The quality of the oranges and pomegranates is key. Look for oranges that are firm, heavy for their size (indicating juiciness), and have brightly colored skin without too many blemishes. For pomegranates, select ones that feel heavy (suggesting lots of juice), and the skin should be tight and shiny.
• Segmenting Oranges: To ensure your salad looks as good as it tastes, take the time to properly segment your oranges. This means removing the peel and the white pith (which can be bitter) and then cutting between the membranes to release the individual segments. This not only makes for a prettier presentation but also ensures every bite is purely delicious fruit without the chewy membrane.
• Seeding Pomegranates without the Mess: Cutting a pomegranate can be daunting because of the potential mess. One effective way to seed a pomegranate is to cut it in half horizontally, then hold each half over a bowl, cut-side down. Tap the outer skin firmly with a wooden spoon or roll it gently, pressing the seeds out into the bowl. This method minimizes juice splatter and keeps your kitchen clean.
• Dressing: For a salad like this, a light dressing works best to not overpower the flavors of the orange and pomegranate. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, a touch of vinegar, honey, and a hint of mustard can complement the fruit’s flavors without competing with them. Adjust the sweetness and acidity according to your taste, but keep it subtle.
• Garnishes and Extras: Introduce texture and additional flavor through garnishes. Mint leaves can add freshness, nuts such as pistachios or walnuts offer crunch, and feta or goat cheese provides creaminess and a tang that contrasts well with the sweetness of the fruits. Choose what complements your palate the best.
• Season Appropriately: Finally, don’t forget to season your salad lightly with salt. It may sound odd to add salt to a fruit-based salad, but just a pinch can enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients, making the sweet and tart notes stand out even more.

Serving suggestions about Winter Salad with Orange & Pomegranate

• On a Large, Flat Platter: To showcase the beauty of this salad, opt for a large, flat platter rather than a deep bowl. This allows the colorful components—bright orange segments and ruby-red pomegranate seeds—to be spread out, making the dish visually appealing and inviting.
• Room Temperature or Slightly Chilled: This salad tastes best when served at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you’ve refrigerated the prepared salad or ingredients, take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving. This will help elevate the flavors of the oranges and pomegranates.
• As a Starter or Side Dish: The Winter Salad with Orange & Pomegranate works wonderfully as a refreshing starter to awaken the palate or as a side dish to complement rich, hearty main courses. Its crisp, fresh flavors balance out heavier winter foods beautifully.
• Pair with Main Courses: This salad pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, particularly poultry or fish, where the citrus elements can play against the smoky flavors of the protein. It also complements vegetarian dishes, like quinoa or farro salads, by adding a burst of freshness.
• Decorative Garnishes: Before serving, add a final touch of elegance with additional garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like mint or parsley not only adds a layer of flavor but also enhances the visual appeal. A light drizzle of pomegranate molasses or a few drops of balsamic reduction can introduce a subtle, complex sweetness.
• Offering Extras on the Side: Allow guests to customize their experience by offering extra ingredients on the side. Bowls of additional nuts, cheese, or even extra dressing can let everyone tailor the salad to their taste, making the meal more interactive and enjoyable.