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Easy Winter Citrus Pomegranate Fruit Salad

winter citrus pomegranate fruit salad - featured image

A bright, bold, and refreshing winter fruit salad with citrus segments, pomegranate seeds, and a honey-lime dressing. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s the perfect quick side dish or light dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 navel oranges, peeled and segmented (or 4 clementines)
  • 2 ruby red grapefruits, peeled and segmented
  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds (from about 1 large pomegranate)
  • 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Fresh mint leaves, torn or thinly sliced (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pomegranate: Cut the pomegranate in half horizontally. Fill a large bowl with cold water. Submerge one half in the water and use your fingers to gently pry the seeds loose. The seeds will sink, and the pith will float. Skim off the pith and drain the seeds.
  2. Segment the citrus: Cut a thin slice off the top and bottom of each orange and grapefruit. Using a sharp knife, cut off the peel and white pith in strips, following the curve of the fruit. Hold the peeled fruit over a bowl and cut along each membrane to release the segments. Squeeze the remaining membrane for extra juice.
  3. Slice the fennel: If using, cut off the stalks and root end. Slice the bulb in half lengthwise, then slice crosswise into very thin half-moons.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of sea salt. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
  5. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the citrus segments, pomegranate seeds, and sliced fennel (if using). Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss with your hands or a large spoon to coat evenly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately or let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.

Notes

Best served within an hour of making. For make-ahead, prep ingredients separately and toss with dressing just before serving. Use pre-seeded pomegranate and pre-sliced fennel to save time. A sharp knife is key for clean citrus segments.

Nutrition

Keywords: winter fruit salad, citrus salad, pomegranate salad, easy fruit salad, healthy side dish, vegan option, gluten-free