Pomegranate Christmas Salad

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Bring festive cheer to your holiday table with this vibrant and refreshing Pomegranate Christmas Salad. It features crisp greens, tart pomegranate seeds, sweet pears, crunchy candied pecans, and creamy blue cheese crumbles, all drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette that ties it together like a perfect holiday bow. It looks stunning in a wooden bowl and tastes even better—a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that guests will remember.

This salad is not only a showstopper but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a stress-free side dish for any Christmas dinner, potluck, or winter gathering. It’s fresh, healthy, and delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Pomegranate Christmas Salad

This salad brings the colors and spirit of the season into a bowl. From the jewel-toned pomegranate seeds to the snowy white cheese and lush greens, it’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. The combination of sweet and savory, tart and creamy makes every bite a little holiday magic.

What Kind of Greens Should I Use?

Baby arugula adds a nice peppery bite and holds up well to the juicy ingredients and dressing, but baby spinach, mixed greens, or even a spring mix work wonderfully. The key is to use a base that complements the toppings without overpowering the flavors.

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Ingredients for the Pomegranate Christmas Salad

• Baby arugula (6 cups): A peppery green that holds up beautifully under dressing and toppings.
• Green pears (2 medium, thinly sliced): Their sweetness pairs perfectly with the tart pomegranate.
• Pomegranate seeds (1 cup): These jewels bring tart flavor, crunch, and stunning holiday color.
• Candied pecans (1 cup): Adds a caramelized crunch that contrasts the fresh greens.
• Blue cheese crumbles (1/2 cup): For creamy richness and a little tang to balance the sweetness.
• Balsamic vinaigrette (1/2 cup): Brings everything together with a sweet and tangy finish.

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How To Make the Pomegranate Christmas Salad

Step 1: Build the Green Base

In a large salad bowl, layer 6 cups of baby arugula. Fluff it gently to make the base look light and airy.

Step 2: Add the Pears

Thinly slice 2 medium green pears. Fan the slices over the greens, spacing them evenly for visual appeal and easy serving.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Jewels

Add 1 cup of pomegranate seeds, scattering them generously across the salad so every serving gets a few pops of juicy tartness.

Step 4: Add Crunch and Cream

Top with 1 cup of candied pecans and 1/2 cup of blue cheese crumbles. The contrast between textures is what makes this salad shine.

Step 5: Dress It Right Before Serving

Drizzle 1/2 cup of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side so guests can add as they like.

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How to Serve and Store This Holiday Salad

This salad serves 6 to 8 people as a side dish. For a buffet or holiday table, prepare all the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container without dressing—it’ll keep for up to 2 days in the fridge.

What to Serve With Pomegranate Christmas Salad?

H3: Herb-Crusted Roast Beef

Pairs well with the fresh, tart notes of the salad.

H3: Honey Glazed Ham

The sweetness of the ham mirrors the pomegranate and candied pecans.

H3: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

A cozy pairing that brings warmth and richness.

H3: Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Balances the freshness with savory comfort.

H3: Maple Roasted Carrots

Enhances the sweet notes in the salad.

H3: Cranberry Brie Bites

A festive appetizer that echoes the salad’s fruity tones.

H3: Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Great for soaking up extra dressing and pairing with the creamy cheese.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the components up to a day ahead. Store the arugula, sliced pears (tossed with lemon to prevent browning), pomegranate seeds, candied pecans, and cheese separately. Assemble just before serving.

What if I don’t like blue cheese?
Goat cheese or feta are great alternatives. Both offer creaminess with a milder flavor.

Can I use store-bought balsamic vinaigrette?
Absolutely! Just choose a good quality one. Or make a quick one at home using olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.

Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, as long as the blue cheese is made without animal rennet.

Can I substitute apples for pears?
Yes. Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji work well and hold their shape beautifully.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the pears for apples? Try goat cheese instead? I love hearing how you make it your own. Drop your tweaks or questions—let’s make this the best holiday salad ever.

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Conclusion

The Pomegranate Christmas Salad is festive, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. It’s the kind of side dish that feels fancy without the fuss and brings joy to both the table and the palate. Whether you’re planning a small gathering or a big celebration, this salad is sure to be a standout.

Craving more festive food ideas? Check out these delicious pairings like Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas, Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing, or our winter-perfect Stuffed Mushrooms with Cheese & Herbs to complete your holiday spread.

For more beautiful seasonal recipes, visit my Pinterest: Meals We Share

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