Arugula Pomegranate Salad with Walnuts

Thanksgiving is a beautiful, beige, buttery meal. This salad is the bright spot.

Peppery arugula, pomegranate seeds that pop like little jewels, and farm fresh walnuts toasted until they smell like heaven, all tossed in a simple vinaigrette sweetened with raw local honey. It cuts through everything rich on the plate and makes people go back for another round of stuffing.

It's one of our Thanksgiving sides, and the arugula, pomegranate, walnuts and honey come in the Full Market Size of the Thanksgiving Box.

Arugula Pomegranate Salad with Walnuts

Serves 6 to 8 as part of the spread

Ingredients

• About 5 ounces arugula
• Seeds from the pomegranate (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup farm fresh walnuts
• 3 tablespoons organic olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Bill’s Bees raw local honey
• Salt and organic black pepper

Instructions

1. Toast the walnuts. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, shaking often, until fragrant. Let them cool, then roughly chop.
2. Seed the pomegranate. Cut it in half and, holding it cut side down over a bowl of water, tap the back with a wooden spoon. The seeds sink and the white pith floats.
3. Make the dressing. Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, honey and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Toss. Right before serving, toss the arugula with the dressing, then scatter the pomegranate and walnuts over the top.

Make It Ahead

• The day before: Toast the walnuts and keep them in a jar. Seed the pomegranate and keep the seeds in the fridge. Whisk the dressing and keep it in the fridge.
• Right before serving: Shake the dressing, then toss. Dressed arugula wilts fast, so wait until the last minute.

Salad FAQ

Can I use something other than arugula?

Yes. Baby spinach or a mix of tender greens works. Arugula's peppery bite is what balances the sweet pomegranate, though.

How do I store leftover walnuts?

Fresh walnuts have delicate oils, so keep them in an airtight jar in the fridge or freezer to keep them sweet.

Can I add cheese?

Shaved parmesan or crumbled goat cheese is a lovely addition if you have some.

More Thanksgiving Sides

• Toasted Sesame Pear and Honey Stuffing
• Saffron Butter Sage Squash
• Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
• Garlic Thyme Potatoes, Your Way
• Garlic Green Beans

No market run. No menu planning. Just cook.

Get the Thanksgiving Box