Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Published: June 26, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pears and pomegranate provides a refreshing taste that excites the palate.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match different nuts or cheeses based on your personal preferences.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With only 30 minutes of prep time, this salad can be made in a flash.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this salad fits right in.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, it’s not just delicious but also good for you.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pear Salad successfully, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Large serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all of your ingredients easily without spilling.
Whisk: This tool is perfect for blending the dressing to ensure all flavors are well combined.
Knife: A sharp knife will help you chop fruits and vegetables quickly for efficient preparation.

Ingredients

For the Salad

10 ounces spring salad mix
2 pears, sliced or chopped (Anjou, Bosc or Bartlett are great)
3/4 English cucumber, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup roasted and salted pepitas (may sub sunflower seeds)
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (may sub 1/3 cup dried cranberries)
1/2 cup crumbled feta, goat cheese or Gorgonzola
1 recipe caramelized nuts (I use walnuts; may sub roasted/not candied pistachios)

For the Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

1 5.3 oz. container Pomegranate Greek Yogurt (I use Chobani)
3 tablespoons Asian Sweet Chili Sauce (see notes)
3 tablespoons pomegranate juice
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (depending on how tangy you like it)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until smooth.
Chill the dressing in the refrigerator while preparing the salad. This can be made ahead and stored for up to five days.
If desired, adjust the flavor after chilling by adding honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine all salad ingredients: spring mix, pears, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, pepitas, pomegranate seeds, and cheese.
If serving immediately, drizzle your desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
For any leftovers, serve individual portions dressed separately to maintain freshness.

Enjoy this vibrant Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing as it brings a burst of color and flavor to your table!

How to Serve Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

This Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing is versatile and makes an impressive addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

Serve it with grilled chicken or turkey for a filling meal. The protein complements the salad’s flavors beautifully.

As a Side Dish

Pair it with roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. The sweetness of the pears balances the earthy flavors of the veggies.

For Special Occasions

Present it at holiday dinners or potlucks for a festive touch. The vibrant colors and textures will impress your guests.

In Individual Portions

Create individual servings in small bowls for parties. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without the fuss of serving.

How to Perfect Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Enhancing your Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing can make a significant difference in taste and presentation. Here are some tips:

Choose ripe pears: Opt for Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett pears as they provide the right balance of sweetness and texture.
Toast nuts before using: Toasting walnuts or pistachios enhances their flavor and adds crunch to your salad.
Mix textures: Combine creamy feta or goat cheese with crunchy pepitas and caramelized nuts for a delightful mouthfeel.
Adjust dressing flavors: Taste the dressing before serving and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed to suit your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Pairing side dishes with this delightful salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

Grilled Chicken – Marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection add protein and flavor that complements the salad.
Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf provides a nutty flavor, making it an excellent base alongside the salad.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add a warm, comforting element that contrasts nicely with the fresh salad ingredients.
Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs offers a refreshing side that pairs well with the pomegranate dressing.
Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables serve as a visually appealing side that’s hearty too.
Garlic Breadsticks – Crunchy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for a delicious accompaniment, perfect for mopping up any extra dressing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing experience.

Using Overripe Pears: Make sure to select firm pears for the best texture. Overripe pears can lead to a mushy salad.
Skipping the Dressing Chill: Don’t skip chilling the dressing. This process helps flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.
Not Adjusting the Dressing: Always taste and adjust your dressing before serving. Add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for extra tang as needed.
Overdressing the Salad: Be cautious with how much dressing you use. Too much can overwhelm the fresh ingredients, so start with a little and add more gradually.
Ignoring Customizations: Feel free to experiment! Not using your favorite nuts or cheeses can limit the flavor profile. Mix in your preferred ingredients for a personal touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days.

Freezing Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh ingredients like lettuce and pears.
If you need to freeze components, consider freezing only the dressing separately.

Reheating Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes without dressing.
Microwave: Use low power setting and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid wilting greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing.

Can I make Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but dress it just before serving for optimal freshness.

What types of pears work best in this salad?

Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett pears are great options due to their crisp texture and sweet flavor.

How can I customize my Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing?

Feel free to swap out nuts or cheeses according to your preference. You can also add other fruits like apples or berries!

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy-based cheese with plant-based alternatives and use vegan mayonnaise for the dressing.

Can I use other seeds instead of pepitas?

Yes! Sunflower seeds or even chopped nuts can be great substitutes if you want something different.

Final Thoughts

This Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for holiday feasts or casual gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your taste preferences—there are endless possibilities!