Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Arugula Salad : Fresh, Festive, and Flavorful

If you’re looking for a salad that feels like a celebration in a bowl, this Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Arugula Salad is it. Bright, juicy pomegranate seeds sparkle like jewels, creamy goat cheese melts in your mouth, and candied pecans add a sweet, nutty crunch. Tossed with fresh arugula and a simple homemade vinaigrette, this salad brings a burst of seasonal flavor to your table.

It’s the perfect choice for fall salad recipes easy enough for weeknights, yet elegant enough to be a salad recipe for Thanksgiving or even a winter salad for a crowd during the holidays.

Save

What Makes This Fall Pomegranate Salad So Special?

A good salad is more than just greens—it’s about texture, color, and balance. This fall pomegranate salad combines:

• Peppery arugula as the green base
• Sweet-tart pomegranate seeds for brightness
• Creamy goat cheese for tang and richness
• Candied pecans for crunch and caramelized flavor
• A light vinaigrette to tie everything together

Whether you’re planning December salad recipes for family gatherings or want a healthy, quick weeknight dish, this salad stands out with its festive red-and-green colors and fresh flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Arugula Salad With Pomegranate Seeds

This recipe uses simple, seasonal ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 5 cups fresh arugula (washed and dried)
• 1 cup pomegranate arils (seeds)
• ½ cup goat cheese (crumbled)
• ½ cup candied pecans (or regular toasted pecans)
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional for sharpness)

For the vinaigrette:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

This ingredient list can be adapted depending on what’s in your pantry. If goat cheese isn’t available, feta or blue cheese makes a great substitute.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make This Easy Fall Salad Recipe

This arugula salad with pomegranate seeds comes together in under 15 minutes. Perfect for busy days when you still want something impressive and nourishing.

Step 1: Make the dressing
Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the salad base
Place arugula in a large salad bowl. Add red onion slices if using.

Step 3: Add toppings
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds, goat cheese crumbles, and candied pecans over the greens.

Step 4: Dress and toss
Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat without crushing the ingredients.

Step 5: Serve immediately
This salad is best enjoyed fresh while the greens are crisp and the toppings are vibrant.

Save

Essential Kitchen Tools for Preparing Winter Salads

Making this winter dinner salad recipe is simple, but the right tools make it easier:

• A sharp chef’s knife (for slicing onions and chopping pecans if needed)
• Salad spinner (to dry arugula thoroughly)
• Small whisk or jar with a lid (for mixing vinaigrette)
• Large salad bowl (for tossing and serving)

Flavor Profile: Balancing Sweet, Tangy, and Crunchy

This salad is all about balance:

• Sweetness comes from candied pecans and honey in the dressing
• Tanginess comes from goat cheese and balsamic vinegar
• Freshness comes from arugula and pomegranate
• Crunch comes from pecans and pomegranate seeds

Every bite is satisfying, and the contrasting flavors keep it exciting. That’s what makes it perfect as a fall pomegranate recipe for both everyday meals and festive gatherings.

Seasonal Variations: Turning This Into a December Salad Recipe

Looking to adapt this for the holidays or switch it up? Try these variations:

• Arugula Christmas Salad: Add sliced pears or apples for extra sweetness. The red and green colors make it festive for holiday tables.
• Winter Salad for a Crowd: Double or triple the recipe and assemble it in a large serving platter. Keep dressing on the side so guests can add as they like.
• Fall Salad Recipes Easy Version: Use pre-packaged arugula and store-bought candied pecans to save time.
• Barley or Quinoa Add-In: For extra heartiness, toss in cooked barley or quinoa. It turns this into a satisfying main dish salad.

How to Serve This Salad Recipe for Thanksgiving or Christmas

This salad is a showstopper side dish for holiday gatherings. The jewel-like pomegranate seeds and vibrant greens add a pop of color to any table. Serve it:

• With roasted turkey or chicken at Thanksgiving
• Alongside prime rib or glazed ham at Christmas dinner
• As a lighter starter before hearty winter dishes like scalloped potatoes or creamy mushroom soup
• At a holiday brunch with pumpkin French toast roll-ups

Pairing Ideas for Winter Dinner Salad Recipes

This salad pairs well with both rich and light dishes. Some pairing ideas include:

• Main proteins like roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or pork tenderloin
• Vegetarian mains like vegetarian baked ziti or stuffed acorn squash
• Holiday sides like garlic herb roasted vegetables or cheesy root vegetable gratin
• Sweet endings like apple crisp or pumpkin cheesecake cookies

Make-Ahead Tips and How to Store This Fall Salad

If you’re preparing this salad in advance for a party, here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Prep ahead: Wash and dry arugula, seed the pomegranate, and mix the vinaigrette up to 2 days before serving.
• Store separately: Keep dressing in a jar, arugula in a container, and toppings in another until ready to assemble.
• Assemble last-minute: Toss everything together right before serving so the greens stay crisp.

Leftovers should be eaten within 24 hours since dressed arugula wilts quickly.

Nutritional Benefits of This Arugula Christmas Salad

This pomegranate and goat cheese arugula salad isn’t just festive—it’s good for you too.

• Pomegranate seeds: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C
• Arugula: Rich in vitamin K, calcium, and iron
• Goat cheese: Easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese, with protein and calcium
• Pecans: Source of healthy fats, fiber, and magnesium

Together, these ingredients make a nutrient-dense side dish that’s both indulgent and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Fall Pomegranate Recipes

1. Overdressing the salad – too much vinaigrette can weigh down arugula. Start light, then add more if needed.
2. Not drying greens – wet arugula won’t hold dressing well. Use a salad spinner.
3. Skipping the crunch – candied pecans (or toasted nuts) make a big difference in texture.
4. Using out-of-season pomegranate – fresh, ripe seeds are key for maximum flavor and juiciness.

Save

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter and Holiday Salads

Can I use spinach instead of arugula?
Yes, spinach or mixed greens work if you prefer milder flavor.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?
Feta, blue cheese, or even shaved parmesan are great options.

How do I make it vegan?
Use a plant-based cheese alternative and maple syrup in the vinaigrette.

Can I make this for a large group?
Yes, simply multiply the recipe and keep dressing on the side until serving.

Do I have to candy the pecans?
No, you can use plain toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for a less sweet version.

Conclusion: A Festive Salad for Any Occasion

This Pomegranate and Goat Cheese Arugula Salad is the ultimate seasonal dish—colorful, flavorful, and versatile. It’s the kind of salad that feels special enough for Thanksgiving or Christmas, yet simple enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner.

From the crunch of candied pecans to the creaminess of goat cheese and the juicy burst of pomegranate seeds, every bite is perfectly balanced. Add it to your collection of fall pomegranate recipes and watch it become a new family favorite.

Whether you’re planning a winter salad for a crowd or looking for a refreshing side dish for your holiday table, this recipe delivers every time.

Print