Winter Pomegranate Salad is the perfect combination of vibrant color, crunch, and refreshing flavor that brightens even the chilliest day. Packed with seasonal ingredients like kale, red cabbage, pomegranate arils, and candied pecans, this salad brings a festive touch to your holiday table—or makes an easy weeknight side. The citrusy maple vinaigrette ties everything together with just the right tangy sweetness. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a holiday gathering, this winter salad is a crisp, nutritious star.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses fresh, seasonal winter produce
- Sweet and tangy homemade vinaigrette
- Make-ahead friendly with hearty greens
- Naturally gluten-free
- Easily adaptable for vegetarians or vegans
Whether you serve it as a Thanksgiving side or a light lunch, this salad satisfies on every level—flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 4 oz curly kale, chopped
- 4 oz red cabbage, finely shredded
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- ½ cup candied pecans (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ red onion, diced
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta for a milder flavor)
For the Maple Citrus Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp orange juice (fresh squeezed recommended)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Massage the kale: Remove tough stems from kale and chop leaves into bite-sized pieces. Add to a large bowl and massage for 1–2 minutes until darker and tender.
- Add cabbage: Shred red cabbage and mix with the kale.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle in pomegranate arils, candied pecans, diced red onion, and crumbled cheese.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, zest, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately: For best texture and color, enjoy just after dressing.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 side salads or 4 main salads
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 155
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 174mg
- Vitamin C: 35mg
- Vitamin A: 1918 IU
- Calcium: 48mg
- Iron: 1mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands.
Tips & Variations
- Make it vegan: Skip the cheese or replace with a plant-based crumble.
- Swap nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for different textures.
- Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Make ahead: Store the salad and dressing separately, and toss right before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this salad a day ahead?
Yes! Massage and chop the greens, prep toppings, and mix the vinaigrette in advance. Store separately and toss together just before serving.
What cheese works best besides blue cheese?
Feta or goat cheese offer a great alternative with a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
How do I keep pomegranate arils fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Winter Pomegranate Salad
Equipment
- – Large salad bowl
- – Small whisk or jar with lid
- – Sharp knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- – 4 oz curly kale chopped
- – 4 oz red cabbage shredded
- – ½ cup pomegranate arils
- – ½ cup candied pecans
- – ½ red onion diced
- – ½ cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
- ### Vinaigrette Dressing
- – 3 tbsp olive oil
- – 2 tbsp orange juice
- – 1 tsp orange zest
- – 1 tbsp maple syrup
- – 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- – ¼ tsp salt
- – ⅛ tsp pepper
Instructions
- Massage chopped kale in a large bowl until tender.
- Add shredded cabbage and mix.
- Top with pomegranate arils, pecans, red onion, and cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk dressing ingredients until well combined.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately for best freshness.
Notes
– Vegan option: omit cheese or use plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
This Winter Pomegranate Salad is a delightful seasonal recipe that offers a burst of freshness with every bite. With its crunchy greens, juicy pomegranate, and zesty vinaigrette, it’s a show-stopping salad you’ll come back to all winter long.