Orange and Pomegranate Salad with Candied Almonds Recipe
This Orange and Pomegranate Salad with Candied Almonds is a delightful summer dish that brings together the best of fresh greens, juicy fruits, and crunchy candied almonds, creating a truly refreshing appetizer. With a tangy dressing that perfectly balances the sweetness of the fruit, this salad is a feast for the senses. The crunchy candied almonds add a unique texture, while the pomegranate seeds burst with juice, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a light lunch, this vibrant salad is sure to impress.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Iceberg lettuce | 2 cups, washed, drained, and roughly torn |
| Orange | 1, peeled and segments separated |
| Fresh pomegranate fruit kernels | 1/2 cup |
For the Candied Almonds:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Slivered almonds (Badam) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 4 tablespoons |
For the Dressing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon zest | From 1 lemon |
| Lemon juice | From 1/2 lemon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Red chili flakes or smoked paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lettuce:
- Rinse the iceberg lettuce thoroughly under cold water, then pat dry with a kitchen towel. Tear the lettuce into rough, bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad mixing bowl. Set aside.
-
Make the Candied Almonds:
- To make the candied almonds, place the sugar in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Allow the sugar to melt without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally. As it melts, the sugar will begin to turn a deep golden color. Be patient and avoid stirring, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize.
- Once the sugar has fully caramelized, pour it evenly over the slivered almonds. Allow the nuts to cool completely on a sheet of aluminum foil that has been lightly greased with olive oil. Once cooled, peel the candied almonds from the foil and roughly crush them with a mortar and pestle or by pressing gently with your hands. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small airtight bottle or bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (or smoked paprika). Close the bottle and shake well, or whisk vigorously to emulsify the dressing.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Peel the orange and separate the segments, removing all pith and fiber. If preferred, you can also remove the membrane surrounding each segment for a cleaner presentation.
- Place the orange segments on top of the torn iceberg lettuce in the salad bowl. Add the fresh pomegranate fruit kernels for a burst of color and sweetness.
- Refrigerate the salad for a few minutes to chill before serving.
-
Serve the Salad:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the crushed candied almonds over the top of the salad. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, then gently toss to combine, ensuring the salad is evenly coated.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Orange and Pomegranate Salad with Candied Almonds alongside a main dish such as Stir Fried Brown Rice and Wild Rice Topped with Honey-Glazed Tofu and a dessert like Strawberry Cheesecake Bars for a delightful and balanced summer lunch.
Tips and Variations
- Nuts: Feel free to substitute slivered almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different flavor and crunch.
- Fruit Variations: If pomegranates are out of season, you can replace them with fresh berries, grapes, or even slices of kiwi for added sweetness.
- Dressing Twist: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing for an extra touch of sweetness.
This Orange and Pomegranate Salad with Candied Almonds is a versatile and delicious option that can brighten up any summer meal. The tangy dressing paired with the sweet and crunchy elements creates a balanced and satisfying experience in every bite. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal, this salad is sure to be a favorite on your table.
