Pomegranate Avocado Salad with Candied Walnuts

Pomegranate Avocado Salad with Candied Walnuts

6 servings
The thing I love most about this salad is the use of my favorite seasonal fruits, pomegranates and persimmons, creamy avocado, sweet and spicy walnuts, and my favorite blue cheese. It's a simple salad, but it is also full of bold flavors and so many textures.

Ingredients

  • raw walnuts
    1 ½ c
  • real maple syrup
    ⅓ c
  • cayenne pepper
    ½ tsp
  • mustard greens or mixed greens
    6 c
  • baby arugula
    2 c
  • persimmons

    thinly sliced

    2
  • avocado

    sliced

    1
  • arils from pomegranates
    1
  • blue cheese

    crumbed), (or goat cheese or feta

    6 oz
  • extra virgin olive oil
    ⅓ c
  • balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
    2 tbsp
  • pomegranate juice
    2 tbsp
  • orange zest
    2 tsp
  • kosher salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Preheat the oven 375 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add the walnuts to the baking sheet and toss with the maple syrup, cayenne and a pinch of salt. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring 2-3 time throughout cooking until the walnuts are toasted and golden. Remove from the oven and spread the walnuts in one layer. Allow to cool.2. Add the greens to a large bowl. Add the persimmons, avocado, pomegranate arils, walnuts, and blue cheese. Give the salad a gentle toss.3. To make the vinaigrette, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pomegranate juice, orange zest, and a pinch each of salt an pepper in a bowl or glass jar. Drizzle the dressing over the salad or serve along side the salad. Enjoy!

Pomegranate Avocado Salad with Candied Walnuts

Pomegranate Avocado Salad with Candied Walnuts

30 min6 servings535 cal

Ratings & Reviews

Be the First to Rate

Nobody has rated this recipe yet. If you have made it, add a rating so the next cook knows what to expect.

About this Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping blue cheese salad that’s both vibrant and satisfying? This Pomegranate Avocado Salad with Candied Walnuts is a quick recipe, delivering incredible flavors and textures in just 30 minutes, perfect for brightening up any meal, especially during colder months. What sets this winter salad apart is the irresistible combination of sweet and spicy candied walnuts alongside creamy avocado and bright, seasonal pomegranates and persimmons. It's a simple dish that truly celebrates contrasting elements, making every bite an exciting experience, far beyond your average mixed greens. You’ll love how the bold flavors come together with such ease. Prepare for a symphony of tastes and sensations. You'll savor the fiery crunch of the homemade candied walnuts, the tender sweetness of thinly sliced persimmons, and the juicy pop of fresh pomegranate arils, all beautifully balanced by the rich creaminess of avocado and the tangy bite of crumbled blue cheese. Tossed with a bright, citrus-infused vinaigrette featuring pomegranate juice and orange zest, this salad feels gourmet yet comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for any occasion when you want something fresh, flavorful, and full of texture. Easily adapt this salad to your pantry or preferences. If blue cheese isn't your favorite, goat cheese or feta make excellent creamy alternatives that still offer a lovely tang. For the greens, feel free to use mustard greens or mixed greens if you don't have baby arugula on hand. This Pomegranate Avocado Salad is perfect as a vibrant side dish for a holiday meal or a light, yet satisfying, main course. Its festive colors and robust flavors make it a beautiful and impressive addition to any table.

Frequently Asked Questions