Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad
Introduction
Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines the sweet crunch of apples, the tartness of pomegranate seeds, and the rich flavor of toasted pecans. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect side dish or light meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this salad because it is quick and easy to prepare. It celebrates seasonal ingredients, offering a mix of flavors and textures. The colors of the salad also make it visually appealing, making it a great addition to any meal. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and healthy fats!
How to Make Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped if desired
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients (olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to coat and serve immediately.
How to Serve Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad
Serve the salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It also works well as a light lunch on its own. For an extra touch, you can garnish it with more pomegranate seeds or more chopped pecans.
How to Store Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad
If you need to store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to store the vinaigrette separately. Add it just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Tips to Make Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad
- Use a variety of apples for different flavors and colors.
- Toast the pecans in a skillet for extra flavor.
- Add some cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for creaminess.
Variation
You can replace spinach with mixed greens or kale for a different taste and texture. Adding ingredients like avocado or grilled chicken can also make it a more filling meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Yes, you can add fruits like pears or berries for variety.
2. How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
It’s best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days if kept in an airtight container without dressing.
3. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to mix the salad just before eating to maintain freshness. Store the vinaigrette separately.
Apple, Pomegranate, and Pecan Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant salad featuring sweet apples, tart pomegranate seeds, and rich toasted pecans.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped if desired
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients (olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently to coat and serve immediately.
Notes
For the best flavor, store the vinaigrette separately and add just before serving. You can also use a variety of apples for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: salad, apple, pomegranate, pecans, healthy, vegetarian