North-Inspired Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A bright and refreshing salad combining crisp fennel, juicy citrus segments, and sweet pomegranate seeds, perfect as a light appetizer or side. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 15 minutes pairs medium, thinly sliced fennel bulb, large, peeled and segmented orange, pomegranate seeds for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 140 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart.

★ 4.1 (11 ratings) Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 140 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Thinly slice 1 medium fennel bulb using a sharp knife or mandoline, placing slices in a large salad bowl.
  2. Step 2: Peel and segment 2 large oranges over the bowl to catch juices, then add the segments along with 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds and 1/4 small thinly sliced red onion.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
  4. Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, then sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves on top before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does North-Inspired Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover North-Inspired Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep pomegranate seeds from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in North-Inspired Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale North-Inspired Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is North-Inspired Citrus and Fennel Salad with Pomegranate Seeds vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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