Vibrant Citrus and Berry Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing
Elevate your dining or picnic experience with this refreshing vibrant salad that showcases a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of zesty grapefruit juice and rich pomegranate molasses creates a velvety dressing that perfectly complements the sweetness of fresh blackberries and the chewiness of dried cranberries. With a crunchy finish from toasted almonds, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious choice. Perfect for any gathering or as a light meal, it's a salad that brings the taste of summer to your table all year round.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice
1/2 (Freshly squeezed)
Pomegranate Molasses
1 teaspoon (To taste)
Fresh Lemon Juice
1 teaspoon
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
To taste
Salt
To taste
Sugar
1/2 teaspoon (Unbleached white sugar, honey, or agave nectar may substitute)
Mayonnaise
1/4 cup (Homemade preferred, or use plain yogurt)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons
Mixed Baby Greens
6 ounces
Fresh Blackberries
1 cup
Dried Cranberries
1/2 cup
Toasted Slivered Almonds
1/4 cup
Instructions
1
In a small non-reactive bowl, combine the freshly squeezed grapefruit juice with pomegranate molasses, fresh lemon juice, freshly cracked black pepper, salt, and sugar.
2
Whisk the mixture until well-blended, then add in the mayonnaise and extra virgin olive oil. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
3
Allow the dressing to sit for at least one hour in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld and improve.
4
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the mixed baby greens, fresh blackberries, and dried cranberries until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
5
Divide the salad mixture among four individual plates or bowls.
6
Generously drizzle each salad with the prepared creamy pomegranate dressing.
7
Finally, garnish each salad with a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds for added crunch before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Vibrant Citrus and Berry Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing.
What kind of dressing is used for this salad?
The salad uses a creamy pomegranate dressing made with grapefruit juice, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and olive oil.
What types of berries are included in the salad?
The recipe calls for fresh blackberries and dried cranberries.
How long should the dressing be refrigerated before serving?
The dressing should sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise.
What are the options for sweetening the dressing?
You can use unbleached white sugar, honey, or agave nectar.
Is this salad recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.
What kind of greens are recommended?
The recipe specifies using 6 ounces of mixed baby greens.
What adds a crunchy texture to this salad?
Toasted slivered almonds are used as a garnish to provide crunch.
What kind of grapefruit juice should I use?
The recipe recommends freshly squeezed Ruby Red grapefruit juice.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 12 ingredients in this recipe.
What type of oil is used in the dressing?
Extra virgin olive oil is used to create the creamy dressing.
Should the dressing be tossed with the salad or drizzled?
The instructions suggest generously drizzling the dressing over individual plated servings.
What is the purpose of pomegranate molasses in this recipe?
It provides a rich flavor and helps create a velvety texture for the dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for a picnic?
Yes, the description highlights it as a refreshing choice for a picnic or gathering.
What kind of bowl should I use to mix the dressing?
A small non-reactive bowl is recommended for combining the acidic ingredients.
How should the salad be plated?
Divide the tossed greens and berries among four individual plates or bowls before adding dressing and almonds.
What seasoning is added to the dressing?
Freshly cracked black pepper and salt are added to taste.
Can I use frozen blackberries?
The recipe specifically calls for fresh blackberries to ensure the best flavor and texture.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
Based on the instructions, the recipe is designed to be divided among four individual plates.
Is there lemon juice in the dressing?
Yes, one teaspoon of fresh lemon juice is included.
What preparation is needed for the almonds?
The almonds should be slivered and toasted before being added to the salad.
What makes the dressing smooth and creamy?
Whisking the mayonnaise and extra virgin olive oil into the juice mixture creates the creamy consistency.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
The recipe specifies fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
What is the first step in making the dressing?
Combine grapefruit juice, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, pepper, salt, and sugar in a small bowl.
Is this salad considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a nutritious choice featuring fresh fruit and baby greens.
What does the pomegranate molasses add besides flavor?
It contributes to the velvety texture of the dressing.
What is the final step before serving?
Garnish each salad with a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, honey is listed as an acceptable substitute for unbleached white sugar.
Does the recipe use specific salt?
The recipe simply calls for salt to taste.