Winter Pomegranate Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts

When the chilly air settles in and the festive spirit fills your home, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a vibrant Winter Pomegranate Salad. This masterpiece by Tieghan Gerard is a blend of fresh greens, jewel-toned pomegranate arils, tangy goat cheese, and the irresistible crunch of maple candied walnuts. With a quick prep time of just 35 minutes, this salad is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply treating yourself to a healthy and indulgent dish.

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Let’s dive into everything that makes this salad a star – from its harmonious flavors and textures to tips on ingredient swaps and serving ideas.

The Appeal of Winter Pomegranate Salad

Picture this: crisp, earthy greens mingling with the sweet burst of pomegranate arils, creamy goat cheese, and the spiced warmth of candied walnuts. Every bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, enhanced by a luscious balsamic fig dressing that adds depth and richness.

This salad is more than a side dish; it’s a sensory journey. The tangy and sweet notes of the pomegranate balance perfectly with the peppery arugula and the caramelized crunch of maple-spiced walnuts. It’s a visual feast too, with a riot of colors that make any table look festive.

Ingredients

For the Maple Candied Walnuts

• 2 cups raw walnuts
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper
• Flaky sea salt

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed greens (baby kale and spinach)
• 2 cups arugula
• 2 cups POM POMS Fresh Pomegranate Arils
• 1 blood or cara cara orange, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese

For the Balsamic Fig Dressing

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fig preserves
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Maple Candied Walnuts

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• In a bowl, toss the walnuts with maple syrup, cinnamon, crushed red pepper, and a sprinkle of salt.
• Spread the walnuts evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes. Stir twice during baking to ensure even caramelization.
• Once golden and toasted, remove the walnuts from the oven and sprinkle with flaky salt. Let them cool completely for maximum crunch.

2. Assemble the Salad

• In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, arugula, and pomegranate arils.
• Add orange slices, if using, for a vibrant citrusy twist.
• Toss in the dried cranberries and crumble goat cheese over the top.
• Finish with the cooled maple candied walnuts.

3. Make the Balsamic Fig Dressing

• In a glass jar with a lid, combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fig preserves, salt, and pepper.
• Shake well until emulsified.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic fig dressing over the salad.
• Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.

Flavor and Texture

This salad is a celebration of contrasts:

• Crunchy walnuts coated in warm maple and spice.
• Creamy goat cheese adding tangy richness.
• Juicy pomegranate arils bursting with sweet-tart notes.
• Peppery greens offering a fresh bite.
• Zesty orange slices (optional) for a hint of brightness.

Every forkful delivers a perfectly balanced combination of textures and flavors that dance on your palate.

Tips and Variations

• Nut Substitutes: Try pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a sharper taste.
• Dressing Alternatives: No fig preserves? Use honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
• Seasonal Additions: Add roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty touch.
• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cheese and maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this salad with roasted meats, such as chicken or turkey, for a holiday feast.
• Serve alongside a warm soup for a cozy winter meal.
• Add grilled tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and versatile enough to be the star of any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or craving something fresh and flavorful, this Winter Pomegranate Salad is sure to impress.

So, grab your ingredients and embrace the joy of crafting this vibrant, winter-inspired dish. One bite, and it’ll become a staple in your seasonal recipe repertoire.