Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

This Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad is a delightful fusion of colorful vegetables and hearty grains. Ideal for festive gatherings, meal prep, or as a refreshing side dish to warm soups, this salad stands out with its vibrant flavors and textures. Each bite bursts with seasonal goodness, making it a family favorite that improves in taste the next day.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salad
• For the Dressing
• For Garnish
• How to Make Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad
• Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
• Step 2: Cook the Farro
• Step 3: Prepare the Pomegranate Arils
• Step 4: Make the Dressing
• Step 5: Prepare the Kale
• Step 6: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad
• As a Main Dish
• As a Side Dish
• In Meal Prep Containers
• With Extra Toppings
• For Holiday Gatherings
• Drizzled with More Dressing
• How to Perfect Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad
• Best Side Dishes for Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad
• Reheating Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I customize my Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad?
• Can I prepare Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad ahead of time?
• What other vegetables go well with this salad?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Nutritious: The combination of grains and seasonal vegetables creates a satisfying dish that’s both delicious and packed with nutrients.
• Versatile Serving Options: This salad can be served as a main course, side dish, or meal prep option. It fits perfectly alongside various meals.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Many components can be prepared in advance, allowing for quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright hues from the pomegranate arils and butternut squash make this salad visually appealing for any occasion.
• Easily Customizable: Swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand for a unique twist every time.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad easier and more efficient. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting vegetables evenly and achieving that delicious caramelization.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients effortlessly and keeping your workspace organized.
• Whisk: Perfect for creating an emulsion for your dressing, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 cup organic farro, rinsed and cooked
• 1 whole butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 bunches organic dino kale, washed, de-stemmed, and finely chopped
• 1 whole pomegranate, arils removed
• 1 small radicchio, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 green onion, finely chopped (green and white parts, optional)

For the Dressing

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1–2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon miso
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces. Spread them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 25–30 minutes while flipping halfway through. Allow the squash to sit on the pan after roasting to crisp up.

Step 2: Cook the Farro

Cook farro according to the package instructions. For a quicker method, use an Instant Pot by combining farro with a 2:1 ratio of liquid (like bone broth). Cook on pressure for 7 minutes and let it sit for another 7 minutes. Drain excess liquid if necessary; you may not need all the cooked farro for the salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Pomegranate Arils

Cut the pomegranate in half over a bowl of water. Gently separate seeds from the white pith which will float to the top. Scoop out the pith then drain and set aside the arils.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and miso. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning or ingredients based on your preference.

Step 5: Prepare the Kale

Wash, de-stem, and finely chop the kale. Massage 1–2 tablespoons of dressing into the kale to soften it before assembling.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine massaged kale with radicchio (if using) and green onion (if using). Top with cooked farro, roasted butternut squash, and pomegranate arils. Serve with remaining dressing either on the side or drizzled over individual servings.

How to Serve Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

This vibrant Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve this salad as a filling main dish by adding protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it more substantial.

As a Side Dish

• Pair the salad with warm soups or roasted meats for a refreshing contrast. Its tangy dressing complements rich flavors beautifully.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Portion the salad into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The flavors meld wonderfully over time.

With Extra Toppings

• Enhance the salad with toppings like crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts to add texture and flavor. This makes each bite even more enjoyable.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present the salad on a large platter during holiday celebrations. Its festive colors will attract attention and delight your guests.

Drizzled with More Dressing

• Offer additional dressing on the side so everyone can customize their serving. This allows guests to control how much flavor they want in each bite.

How to Perfect Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

To achieve the best version of your Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture while keeping the salad fresh and appealing.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best taste and nutrition. Fresh pomegranates are particularly vibrant in winter.
• Properly Cooked Grains: Ensure the farro is cooked al dente. This gives the salad a nice bite and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Massage the Kale: Take time to massage the kale with dressing before mixing. This softens the leaves, making them easier to eat and enhancing their flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. You can adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness based on your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Mix Textures: Combine different textures by adding crunchy veggies or toasted seeds, which provide contrast against softer ingredients like butternut squash.

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Best Side Dishes for Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

This Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic make for a comforting side that balances out this hearty salad.
2. Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup adds warmth during chilly months while keeping with seasonal flavors.
3. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the salad’s sweetness.
4. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with quinoa, beans, and spices create an appealing dish that complements this vibrant salad.
5. Garlic Herb Flatbread: Serve warm flatbread brushed with garlic herb oil to scoop up salad bites or enjoy alongside each serving for added satisfaction.
6. Citrus Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots glazed with citrus bring brightness to your plate while echoing some of the flavors found in pomegranate arils.
7. Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth dip made from ripe avocados adds richness that pairs well without overpowering other dishes at your table.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm spinach artichoke dip is not only delicious but also provides creamy texture that complements this grain-based salad beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad from good to great.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or pepper can make the salad bland. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Overcooking the grains: If you cook farro too long, it can become mushy. Follow package instructions or use a timer for perfect texture.
• Skipping the kale massage: Neglecting to massage the kale may result in a tough texture. Take a moment to gently work in some dressing to soften it.
• Using unripe pomegranates: Choosing pomegranates that are not ripe can lead to a less flavorful salad. Look for ones that feel heavy and have a vibrant color.
• Making the dressing too early: Preparing your dressing too far in advance can cause flavors to dull. Make it shortly before assembling the salad for maximum freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the salad in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to texture changes after thawing.
• Grains can be frozen separately if desired.

Reheating Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad?

You can swap farro with quinoa or barley and add nuts or seeds for crunch.

Can I prepare Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the squash and cook grains in advance for quick assembly later.

What other vegetables go well with this salad?

Consider adding roasted sweet potatoes or beets for extra flavor and color.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

The Winter Pomegranate and Grain Salad is not only vibrant but also versatile. Packed with nutrients, it’s ideal for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple weeknight dinners. Customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours!