Description
The Pomegranate & Arugula Salad is a delightful medley of peppery greens, juicy pomegranate arils, and crunchy nuts, all drizzled with a tangy dressing that brings all the flavors together. The bitterness of the arugula is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the pomegranate, while the nuts (usually walnuts or pecans) add a satisfying crunch. The creamy texture of the optional feta or goat cheese complements the tangy dressing, which is made from simple pantry ingredients like olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Whether served as a refreshing side dish or as a hearty main dish when paired with protein like grilled chicken or quinoa, this salad offers something for everyone.
Ingredients
Salad:
4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
1 cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1 small avocado, sliced (optional)
Dressing:
3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
1. Toast the nuts (optional but recommended):
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts or pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let cool.
2. Make the dressing:
Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, combine arugula, pomegranate seeds, and toasted nuts.
Add sliced red onion and avocado if using.
Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top.
4. Serve:
Serve immediately for maximum freshness.
Great as a side salad, or add grilled chicken, salmon, or quinoa to make it a main dish.
Tips & Variations
Add citrus: Orange or grapefruit segments pair beautifully with arugula and pomegranate.
Swap greens: Baby spinach or mixed greens work if you prefer milder flavor.
Extra crunch: Pomegranate seeds + toasted seeds (pumpkin or sunflower) make a fun texture contrast.
Notes
This Pomegranate & Arugula Salad is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Top with toasted nuts, crumbled feta, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of taste and texture!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook / Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Pomegranate arugula salad, arugula pomegranate salad, fresh pomegranate salad, healthy salad with arugula