Pomegranate Salad

By Taste of Lime

Our pomegranate salad is nutrient-dense with ingredients like walnuts, avocados, and pomegranate seeds. But besides being healthy, this salad is full of flavor. It has a delicious vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and pomegranate molasses, giving it a distinct, tart and fruity taste. It’s almost a meal in itself, and it’s definitely a side dish waiting for compliments.

What is Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses is essentially pomegranate juice that has been reduced into a thick syrup. You can find it in the honey and molasses section of some grocery stores or in the international aisle. I had trouble finding it, so I ordered mine online, which is another option. It can also be used to drizzle over roasted vegetables, as a glaze for meats, and as a substitute for vinegar or lemon juice in some recipes.

When choosing a brand of pomegranate molasses, look for one that’s made with pure 100 percent pomegranate juice. We’ve tried other brands that include sugar and additives, and they taste different enough that it alters the flavor of the recipe. Mymouné brand pomegranate molasses is a good choice. We also like Al Wadi Pomegranate Molasses 100% Natural, which is a little easier to find.

Tip

It’s a good idea to dress the salad lightly at first, and then taste it. You can always add more dressing if needed.

Pomegranate Salad

Servings: 4 to 5
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Dressing Ingredients

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses, made from 100% pomegranate juice (molasses with sugar and additives will alter the flavor of the recipe)
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt, or to taste

Salad Ingredients

6 cups romaine lettuce, torn or cut into bite-size pieces
1 small cucumber, peeled and cut into large, bite-size cubes (about 3/4-inch)
3 plum tomatoes, quartered and then cut each wedge in half
1/2 cup walnut halves
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 large ripe avocado, pit removed and cut into wedges
1/3 cup pomegranate seeds

Directions

Wash and dry your avocado, but don’t cut it until shortly before serving to prevent discoloration.

Rinse the lettuce leaves and pat dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove as much water as possible. This prevents any water droplets from diluting the dressing.

Combine the pomegranate molasses, vinegar, and salt in a small bowl. Slowly add the oil in a steady stream and whisk until emulsified; set aside. Place all of the salad ingredients in a large bowl except for the avocado and the pomegranate seeds.

Just before serving, whisk the dressing again and toss with the salad. Arrange the avocado slices on top and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds.