Bright, crisp, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Winter Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Jewels is the perfect way to celebrate the bounty of the colder months. With a refreshing mix of juicy citrus fruits, crunchy fennel, and sweet pomegranate arils, this salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Finished with a simple yet elegant citrus vinaigrette, it’s a light and invigorating dish that works as a side, appetizer, or even a main course for a refreshing lunch.
Winter citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and blood oranges, reach their peak sweetness during the colder months, making them an ideal base for this salad. The licorice-like crunch of fennel complements the juicy citrus, while pomegranate arils add a burst of tartness and visual appeal. Whether served at a holiday gathering, as a fresh counterpoint to hearty winter dishes, or enjoyed on its own, this salad is an easy and impressive addition to any menu.
For those looking to add more seasonal salads to their repertoire, try our Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad or our Winter Kale and Cranberry Salad.
Ingredients for Winter Citrus and Fennel Salad
For the Salad:
- 2 navel oranges, peeled and sliced
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced
- 1 blood orange, peeled and sliced
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (How to Prepare Fennel)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils (Best Ways to Seed a Pomegranate)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or pistachios (optional)
For the Citrus Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by peeling and slicing the citrus fruits into rounds, removing any seeds. Thinly slice the fennel bulb and red onion, using a mandoline for even slices if available. If you’re unsure how to cut citrus perfectly, refer to our Guide to Segmenting Citrus.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This dressing can also be used on Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Arrange the sliced citrus and fennel on a serving platter. Sprinkle the red onion, pomegranate arils, and fresh mint leaves over the top. If using, add crumbled feta or goat cheese and toasted almonds or pistachios.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the citrus dressing evenly over the salad just before serving. Toss gently and enjoy immediately.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Best Citrus Combinations: Try a mix of sweet and tart citrus like Cara Cara oranges, tangerines, and pink grapefruit for added depth.
- Make Ahead: You can slice the citrus and fennel a few hours in advance and store them separately until ready to assemble.
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, top with grilled shrimp, salmon, or sliced grilled chicken.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with Garlic Butter Baked Salmon or a warm bowl of Butternut Squash Soup.
For additional pairing ideas, visit the James Beard Foundation for expert recommendations on seasonal dishes.
FAQs
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the citrus and fennel in advance and store them in an airtight container. Add the dressing and toppings just before serving for maximum freshness.
What other dressings can I use?
A balsamic reduction, yogurt-based dressing, or a tahini-lemon drizzle can also complement this salad beautifully.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the citrus may release juice over time, slightly softening the fennel.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh jalapeño for a bit of heat.
- Nutty Crunch: Swap almonds for candied pecans for a hint of sweetness.
- Herb Twist: Try adding fresh basil or cilantro for a unique flavor variation.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with Roasted Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter or alongside a warm bowl of Butternut Squash Soup for a complete meal.
Closing Thoughts
This Winter Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Jewels is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings seasonal produce to life. With its bold colors, crisp textures, and zesty flavors, it’s sure to become a winter favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering, as a light lunch, or as an accompaniment to a hearty main dish, this salad is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. Try it today and bring a touch of sunshine to your winter meals!
For more fresh and seasonal recipes, check out our Ultimate Winter Salad Guide and explore additional inspiration at Bon Appétit.