This Festive Apple, Pear & Pomegranate Winter Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish designed to bring color, texture, and balance to seasonal meals. Crisp greens form the base, layered with thinly sliced apples and pears, ruby-red pomegranate arils, and crunchy spiced nuts. Light yet satisfying, this salad offers sweetness, acidity, and crunch in every bite. It works beautifully as a holiday starter, a side for roasted mains, or a fresh centerpiece for celebratory tables.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Salad Base
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, finely chopped
- 1 cup green cabbage, thinly shredded
- ½ cup red cabbage, thinly shredded
- ¼ cup carrot, finely julienned
Fruit & Toppings
- 1 red apple, thinly sliced
- 1 green apple, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- ⅓ cup candied or lightly spiced nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Method
- Prepare the greens
In a large mixing bowl, combine romaine lettuce, green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrot. Toss gently to distribute evenly. - Make the dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste. - Dress the salad
Pour the dressing over the greens and toss lightly until just coated. Avoid overdressing to keep the salad crisp. - Arrange the fruit
Transfer the dressed greens to a serving platter. Arrange the apple and pear slices decoratively across the surface, slightly fanned for visual appeal. - Finish with toppings
Sprinkle pomegranate arils evenly over the salad, followed by the candied nuts for crunch. - Serve immediately
Serve fresh to preserve texture and color.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted poultry, turkey, or ham
- Serve as a holiday starter or light lunch
- Complements rich main courses with freshness and acidity
Chef’s Tips
- Slice apples and pears just before serving to prevent browning
- Chill greens for 15 minutes before assembling for extra crispness
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth
- Add crumbled goat cheese or feta for a creamy variation
- A light drizzle of dressing on fruit enhances shine and flavor
