Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Name: Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 ounces spring salad mix; 2 ripe pears (Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett), sliced; 3/4 English cucumber, chopped; 1 small red bell pepper, chopped; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup roasted pepitas; 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 5.3 oz. container Pomegranate Greek Yogurt; 3 tablespoons Asian Sweet Chili Sauce; 3 tablespoons pomegranate juice; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Published: July 22, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Flavorful: The mix of sweet pears, tangy pomegranate, and creamy cheese creates a delicious symphony of flavors.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal cooking required, this salad can be ready in just 30 minutes!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or cheeses for a personal touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual get-together, this salad fits right in.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help ensure your salad is beautifully prepared and presented.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the salad ingredients easily without spilling.
Whisk: This tool is essential for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
Knife: A sharp knife helps you slice the pears and vegetables efficiently for even pieces.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Pear Salad:

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/non-candied pistachios)

For the 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

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk all of the dressing ingredients together in a medium bowl. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the salad. You can also make this dressing up to five days in advance! Once chilled, taste it and adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients. If you’re serving immediately, drizzle with desired amount of dressing and toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Serve

If you anticipate leftovers, dress individual portions instead of the whole salad to keep everything fresh.

Enjoy your vibrant Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing! It’s sure to become a staple at your gatherings!

How to Serve Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Serving your Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing can elevate any meal, making it a delightful centerpiece. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

For a Festive Occasion

Buffet Style: Present the salad in a large bowl and let guests serve themselves. This encourages mixing and matching with other dishes.
Individual Portions: Serve in small bowls or jars for an elegant touch. Layer the ingredients for visual appeal.

As a Light Lunch

Wrap It Up: Use the salad as a filling for a whole grain wrap. Add slices of turkey or chicken for extra protein.
On Toast: Top whole grain toast or crostini with the salad for a crunchy lunch option.

As an Appetizer

Mini Cups: Serve in small cups or shot glasses for bite-sized appetizers at parties.
With Crackers: Pair with gourmet crackers on a charcuterie board to complement the salad’s flavors.

How to Perfect Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Perfecting your Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing will ensure that every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Choose Ripe Pears: Select pears that are slightly soft to the touch for optimal sweetness and flavor.
Balance Textures: Include crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and crisp vegetables for an exciting textural contrast.
Chill Your Ingredients: Keep all ingredients cold before assembling to enhance freshness and flavor.
Adjust the Dressing: Tailor the dressing’s sweetness or tanginess by adding honey or vinegar based on your preference.
Mix Just Before Serving: To maintain freshness, toss the salad just before serving instead of pre-mixing it.
Garnish Creatively: Top with additional pomegranate seeds or herbs like mint for added color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Pear Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this salad beautifully.

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds warmth and earthiness, perfect alongside the fresh salad.
Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-rich dish offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweet elements of the salad.
Grilled Chicken: Marinated grilled chicken adds heartiness, making it suitable for a more filling meal.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: A crispy side that provides comfort and indulgence without overpowering the salad’s freshness.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites bring depth to your meal, balancing out lighter flavors found in the salad.
Couscous Salad: A light couscous mixture can add variety while still keeping things refreshing and vibrant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is perfect every time.

Skipping the dressing chill: Not chilling the dressing can lead to a less flavorful salad. Always let your dressing sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Overdressing the salad: Using too much dressing can drown out the fresh flavors of your ingredients. Start with a small amount, then add more if needed after tossing.
Using unripe pears: Unripe pears will be hard and not as sweet. Choose ripe pears for the best flavor and texture in your salad.
Neglecting ingredient prep: If you don’t slice or chop ingredients uniformly, it can affect the overall presentation and texture. Take your time to prepare each component evenly for a beautiful salad.
Ignoring ingredient substitutions: Not being flexible with ingredients can limit your options. Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or cheeses to make this salad truly yours.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best results.

Freezing Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of fresh ingredients.
You can freeze any leftover dressing in an ice cube tray for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread components on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave: Place individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, warm gently while stirring until heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing?

Yes! This recipe is highly adaptable. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have or prefer, such as different nuts or cheeses.

How long does the creamy dressing last?

The creamy dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when kept in an airtight container.

What types of pears are best for this recipe?

Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett pears work wonderfully due to their sweetness and texture. Choose ripe pears for optimal flavor.

Can I make this Pear Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare most components ahead of time but avoid adding the dressing until just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Pear Salad with Creamy Pomegranate Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients; this salad is sure to impress everyone at your table!