We eat a lot of salads here, so I like to change up the dressings we use. While I am a fan of farm dressingit can get boring after a while. This homemade pomegranate vinaigrette is fruity and easy for salads, vegetables, or even as a marinade!
I probably don't have to tell you that pomegranate salad dressing from the grocery store is not ideal. With vegetable oils, added sugar and flavorings, it's not the fresh vinaigrette it promises to be. Yours only takes a few minutes to make and really packs a punch!
Homemade Pomegranate Vinaigrette
I like to make a variety of homemade dressings because they are higher in nutrients (plus they taste better!). Pomegranate Vinaigrette is fruity, delicious and naturally dairy and gluten free. Pomegranate juice is the star of the show, packed with anti-oxidants support heart health. Extra virgin olive oil gives it a creamy mouthfeel and is rich in healthy, anti-inflammatory omega-3s. Like pomegranate, olive oil is also great for heart health.
To offset the weight of the olive oil, I've added apple cider vinegar for a delicious taste and gut health benefits. Dijon mustard also adds some darkness and a subtle sharpness. Honey (or maple syrup) ties it all together to help sweeten it naturally.
I use fresh herbs from the garden here for an added antioxidant boost. These are also easy to use grows on the windowsill when it's cold outside! You can substitute dried herbs for fresh if that's what you have.
Pomegranate vinaigrette recipe
This lively vinaigrette is perfect for salads, roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade. Enjoy!
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In a small bowl or Mason jar, add the pomegranate juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and honey (or maple syrup).
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Stir in oregano, basil and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Mix the ingredients until emulsified, or close the jar and shake until well combined.
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Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to give the flavors time to meld. Shake or stir before serving.
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Pour over your favorite salad or use as a marinade.
Nutrition facts
Pomegranate vinaigrette recipe
Amount per serving (1 serving)
Calories 142
Calories from fat 126
% Daily Value*
Fat 14 g22%
Saturated fat 2 g13%
Unsaturated fat 1 g
Monounsaturated fat 10 g
Sodium 16 mg1%
potassium 50 mg1%
Carbohydrates 4 g1%
Fiber 0.3 g1%
Sugar 3 g3%
Protein 0.2 g0%
Vitamin A 12 IU0%
Vitamin C 1 mg1%
Calcium 12 mg1%
Iron 0.3 mg2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Green salad with pomegranate
Here's a way to use your new pomegranate vinaigrette. The flavors of these ingredients go well together, and the pomegranate vinaigrette adds a fruity, tangy kick.
- Start with a bed of greens, such as arugula, spring mix or spinach.
- Add any fresh vegetables you prefer. Cucumbers, shallots and bell peppers are some good options.
- Top with goat cheese or feta cheese.
- Sprinkle on some dried cranberries, fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped pecans.
Pomegranate vinaigrette dressing substitutions
If you don't want to use apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar also have a nice flavor here. And I use olive oil for most salad dressings, but avocado oil will work too. Some people prefer the more neutral taste of avocado oil.
More salad dressing recipes
Here are a few more ways to dress your next salad!
Have you had pomegranate vinaigrette before? What are your favorite ways to use it? Leave a comment and let us know!
