Pomegranate Christmas Salad

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Bringing festive flair to the table, this Pomegranate Christmas Salad is a vibrant blend of crisp greens, tart pomegranate arils, creamy blue cheese, buttery avocado slices, and crunchy candied walnuts. Drizzled with a maple balsamic dressing that ties everything together with rich, tangy warmth, it’s an unforgettable holiday dish that looks as stunning as it tastes.

It’s the kind of salad that turns heads—not just another side, but a centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or bringing something to a Christmas potluck, this salad celebrates seasonal ingredients and feels special with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Pomegranate Christmas Salad

This salad is bursting with flavors and textures: juicy pomegranate seeds pop with every bite, the blue cheese adds a sharp creamy contrast, and candied walnuts bring crunch and a hint of sweetness. It’s wholesome yet indulgent, eye-catching but simple to prepare. Even salad skeptics will be reaching for seconds.

What Kind of Greens Work Best in This Salad?

You want a mix that holds up well and offers some body. Think baby arugula, frisee, spinach, or a spring mix. These greens add freshness without being too delicate and give the salad a nice, fluffy volume to cradle all the good stuff.

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Ingredients for the Pomegranate Christmas Salad

Let’s take a look at what makes this salad shine. Each ingredient plays a unique role in bringing out the festive flavors:

• Mixed Greens: These are the base of your salad. Choose a fresh mix with different textures for a visually pleasing and satisfying bite.
• Pomegranate Arils: Their tart sweetness balances the richness of the cheese and nuts while adding jewel-like color.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles: Adds tangy creaminess that pairs well with sweet and crunchy components.
• Avocado: Sliced for buttery texture, it makes the salad more filling and luxurious.
• Candied Walnuts: Offer a sweet, caramelized crunch that’s a must-have during the holidays.
• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced for fresh, crisp contrast.
• Maple Balsamic Dressing: A blend of maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon, and garlic brings everything together.

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How To Make the Pomegranate Christmas Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a jar, whisk together 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, and ¼ cup olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Shake until well emulsified.

Step 2: Prepare the Candied Walnuts

In a skillet over medium heat, toast 1 cup of walnuts with 2 tablespoons brown sugar and a splash of water. Stir constantly until coated and glossy. Let cool on parchment paper.

Step 3: Assemble the Base

In a large salad bowl, add 6 to 8 cups of mixed greens. Lightly toss with half the dressing.

Step 4: Layer the Toppings

Arrange pomegranate arils, avocado slices, thin apple slices, blue cheese crumbles, and cooled candied walnuts over the greens.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Right before serving, drizzle with remaining dressing. Give it a gentle toss or leave layered for a more elegant presentation.

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How to Serve and Store Pomegranate Christmas Salad

This festive salad serves 6 to 8 people as a side dish and pairs beautifully with holiday mains. Serve it fresh right after assembling to keep the greens crisp and vibrant.

If prepping ahead, keep the components separate and assemble just before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the greens may wilt slightly after dressing.

What to Serve With Pomegranate Christmas Salad?

Roasted Turkey

A holiday staple that complements the fresh tartness of the salad.

Baked Brie with Cranberries

The creamy brie contrasts nicely with the bright flavors and crunchy walnuts.

Butternut Squash Soup

Velvety and warm, this soup plays beautifully with the salad’s tang.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

For a seafood twist, try this savory and rich shrimp dish alongside the salad. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

Veggie Patties

Add a vegetarian protein option that’s packed with texture and flavor. Easy Veggie Patties

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

This hearty main dish pairs well with the lightness of the salad. Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake

End the meal on a sweet note with this decadent dessert. Blueberry Cream Cake

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this festive Pomegranate Christmas Salad, try these other creative salads that offer flavor-packed combinations:

• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad with lemon and herbs.
• Italian Grinder Salad for those craving bold flavors.
• Colourful Rainbow Bean Salad if you want something protein-rich and vibrant.
• Healthier Waldorf Salad with crunchy apples and grapes.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this salad to your holiday board on Pinterest so it’s easy to find when you’re planning your next gathering!

Let me know if you swapped the blue cheese for goat cheese, or added roasted pumpkin seeds for more crunch. I love hearing your creative tweaks!

Explore more fresh and seasonal inspiration over on Nora Nosh Pinterest and elevate your table with flavor-packed recipes.

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