A jewel-toned salad that dazzles both the eye and palate, this Baby Greens Salad with Orange Pomegranate Vinaigrette is the perfect balance of fresh, bright, and indulgent. Sweet citrus segments and ruby pomegranate arils nestle into tender greens, while a caramelized goat cheese brûlée on crisp brioche lends a dramatic, decadent finish. Elegant and festive, it’s a true show-stopper—ideal for holiday dinners or any occasion where you want to impress.
INGREDIENTS:
Pomegranate Orange Vinaigrette
2 1/2 cups pomegranate juice
1 1/2 cups orange juice
1 large shallot finely diced
1/2 cup raw, organic honey
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 3/4 cups blended oil (light olive oil blended with vegetable oil)
Freshly ground pepper to taste
Goat Cheese Brûlée
1 lb. goat cheese
4 slices loaf brioche
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Salad
1 ½ lbs. baby greens
16 pieces grapefruit segments
16 pieces orange segments
1/4 cup pomegranate arils, garnish
METHOD:
Make the Vinaigrette
In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate and orange juices. Simmer over low heat until reduced to about 3/4 cup. In a skillet, sauté the shallot until soft and translucent. Stir in the juice reduction and let simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. Whisk in honey, Dijon, and red wine vinegar. Slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking to emulsify. Season with pepper. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Prepare the Goat Cheese Brûlée
Beat goat cheese in a mixer until smooth and creamy. Cut brioche slices diagonally and toast lightly. Spread each piece generously with goat cheese. Sprinkle the tops with sugar and caramelize using a kitchen torch until golden. (Alternatively, broil briefly until the sugar bubbles and browns.)
Assemble the Salad
Toss baby greens lightly with about 1/4 cup vinaigrette. Arrange on 8 plates. Add citrus segments and a sprinkle of pomegranate arils. Top each salad with a piece of goat cheese brûlée. Serve immediately.
YIELD: Makes 8 servings
SOURCE: Recipe adapted from Pomegranate.org.
