Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette is a delightful, nutrient-packed salad perfect for fall or any time of year. Featuring fuyu persimmons, pomegranate seeds, and goat cheese, this salad brings together fresh, seasonal ingredients for a refreshing, healthy dish. Tossed in a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette, it’s a great addition to any meal. Mixed greens, toasted pumpkin seeds, or nuts add crunch and flavor, making it not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 5 oz mixed greens
• 4 fuyu persimmons, sliced (NOT hachiya persimmons)
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds (from 1 pomegranate)
• 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled (4 oz)
• 1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (or pine nuts; or substitute with ½ cup coarsely chopped pecans or walnuts)

For the Maple Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp real maple syrup
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, pressed or grated
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Toast the Pumpkin Seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pumpkin seeds (or pine nuts) for about 3-4 minutes, tossing occasionally until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Maple Vinaigrette: In a mason jar or measuring cup, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, create a bed of mixed greens. Top with sliced persimmons, pomegranate seeds, crumbled goat cheese, and cooled pumpkin seeds.
4. Dress the Salad: Just before serving, shake the dressing again if it has separated. Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad to taste (you can use all of it for full flavor). There’s no need to toss the salad, as the dressing naturally moves through the ingredients.

Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette combines the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. With fresh, seasonal ingredients like persimmons and pomegranate seeds, it’s a festive and vibrant salad that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The creamy goat cheese and crunchy pumpkin seeds add wonderful texture, while the maple vinaigrette elevates the salad with a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Tips

• Use fuyu persimmons: Be sure to use fuyu persimmons, as they are sweet, firm, and can be eaten when they are still firm. Hachiya persimmons are astringent and need to be fully ripe before consumption.
• Toast seeds and nuts: Toasting the pumpkin seeds or any nuts you choose will enhance their flavor and provide an extra layer of crunch.
• Make ahead: The salad can be prepped ahead by slicing the persimmons and preparing the vinaigrette. Just wait until right before serving to toss everything together and drizzle with the dressing.

Variations and Substitutions

• Greens: Swap out the mixed greens for arugula, spinach, or a kale blend for a different base.
• Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta, blue cheese, or a creamy ricotta for a similar texture.
• Nuts and Seeds: If you don’t have pumpkin seeds, try toasted sunflower seeds, chopped pecans, or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Vinaigrette: For a more tangy vinaigrette, add a teaspoon of honey mustard or balsamic vinegar instead of maple syrup.

FAQs

• Can I use Hachiya persimmons?
  Hachiya persimmons are not ideal for this salad because they are astringent when firm. Stick to fuyu persimmons for the best texture and flavor.
• Can I make this salad in advance?
  You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to prevent wilting.

Serving

This Persimmon Salad with Maple Vinaigrette makes a great side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even served as a light lunch. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like grilled salmon, roast turkey, or seared tofu.

Suggestions

• Add protein: Make this salad a full meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or a plant-based protein like quinoa or chickpeas.
• Perfect for holidays: With its festive colors and fresh flavors, this salad is perfect for holiday gatherings, Thanksgiving, or a special family dinner.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fall with this simple yet elegant salad!