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Vibrant Winter Citrus Salad with Arugula and Pomegranate

winter citrus salad - featured image

A bright and healthy winter salad combining peppery arugula, juicy winter citrus, and sweet pomegranate seeds, tossed in a honey-lemon dressing. Perfect for refreshing winter meals with vibrant flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups (150g) fresh arugula, washed and dried
  • 2 medium oranges (navel or blood oranges), peeled and segmented
  • 2 medium grapefruits, peeled and segmented
  • Seeds from 1 medium pomegranate (about 1 cup or 150g)
  • ¼ cup (40g) thinly sliced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint or parsley (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup (30g) toasted pistachios or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel the oranges and grapefruits by cutting off the top and bottom, then slicing away the peel and white pith. Segment the fruit by cutting between the membranes to release individual sections, collecting any juice in a small bowl.
  2. Cut the pomegranate in half and gently tap the back with a wooden spoon over a bowl to release the seeds. Remove any white pith bits.
  3. Thinly slice about ¼ cup of red onion. To mellow sharpness, soak slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain well.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, black pepper, and reserved citrus juice. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine arugula, citrus segments, pomegranate seeds, and sliced onion. Add the dressing and gently toss to coat evenly without bruising the fruit.
  6. Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs and optional toasted nuts on top. Toss gently and transfer to a serving bowl or platter.
  7. Serve immediately within 30 minutes to keep greens crisp and citrus juicy.

Notes

Keep dressing separate if preparing ahead to avoid soggy greens. Supreme citrus carefully to avoid bitter pith. Use gentle tossing to prevent wilting arugula. Adding flaky sea salt before serving enhances flavors. Substitute nuts or omit for allergies. Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: winter salad, citrus salad, arugula salad, pomegranate, healthy salad, quick salad, vegetarian, gluten-free