If you are looking for a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors, intriguing textures, and eye-catching colors, this Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the tender warmth of sautéed Brussels sprouts with the juicy brightness of orange segments, the creamy lushness of avocado, and the jewel-like sparkle of pomegranate arils, this dish truly celebrates every element on your plate. It balances sweet, savory, tangy, and fresh, creating a festive yet approachable salad that will quickly become a favorite whether for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad relies on simple, fresh ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering taste, texture, and color, making the recipe both straightforward and irresistibly delightful.

Brussels sprouts (2 pounds): Thinly sliced for a tender, crunchy base bursting with earthy flavor.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Adds aromatic warmth that elevates the Brussels sprouts during sautéing.
Oranges (2, peeled and segmented): Brings juicy citrus brightness, balancing savory notes perfectly.
Avocado (1, thinly sliced): Provides creamy texture and rich flavor for indulgent mouthfeel.
Pomegranate arils (⅓ cup): Jewel-like seeds offering juicy bursts and a flattering pop of ruby red color.
Orange juice (2 tablespoons): Intensifies citrus notes and helps tenderize Brussels sprouts during cooking.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Essential for sautéing and adding smooth richness.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Brings balance and highlights natural flavors perfectly.
Pomegranate molasses (for drizzling): Adds tangy sweetness and a stunning glossy finish to the salad.

How to Make Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

The foundation of this salad is the Brussels sprouts. Start by removing their tough stems, then thinly slice them. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and remain pleasantly tender without losing their natural crunch.

Step 2: Sauté Brussels Sprouts and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced Brussels sprouts along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the minced garlic, allowing the garlicky aroma to infuse the sprouts as they soften. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes while stirring frequently until the Brussels sprouts develop a mild golden color and a soft, yet slightly crisp texture. This step brings out their natural sweetness and gives a wonderful savory depth.

Step 3: Add Orange Juice and Finish Cooking

Pour in the fresh orange juice and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. This short simmer lets the citrus flavor meld beautifully with the Brussels sprouts while finishing the cooking process to tender perfection. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if you like; this will balance the fresh and savory elements perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Salad Components

Transfer the warm Brussels sprouts mixture to a serving dish. Gently toss with the peeled orange segments, thin avocado slices, and the vibrant pomegranate arils. Combining these fresh, juicy components with the warm sprouts creates a stunning medley of textures and flavors that invite you to dive in.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

To finish off, generously drizzle pomegranate molasses over the salad. This tangy and sweet syrup perfectly complements the citrus and adds an elegant glossy shine. Serve immediately to enjoy the beautiful contrast between warm sautéed sprouts and the refreshing cold fruit and avocado.

How to Serve Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and crunch, sprinkle a few toasted pistachios or slivered almonds on top. Fresh mint or basil leaves also work wonderfully to enhance the bright citrus notes, making the salad even more lively and refreshing.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making for a balanced meal full of vibrant flavors. Alternatively, serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or a crusty bread to create a wholesome vegetarian feast that everyone will enjoy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe in individual glass jars or pretty bowls to showcase the layers of color and texture. You could also plate it on a large platter, arranging the salad artfully with extra pomegranate arils and orange slices for a festive table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the pomegranate molasses separate and drizzle it just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and texture.

Freezing

Due to the fresh citrus and avocado, freezing this salad is not recommended as it will alter the texture and taste significantly. It’s best to prepare the salad fresh to enjoy each ingredient at its peak.

Reheating

If you want to reheat the Brussels sprouts portion, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Then toss with fresh citrus segments, avocado, and pomegranate arils just before serving, keeping that fresh and crisp balance intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this salad?

While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture before thinly slicing and sautéing.

Is there a substitute for pomegranate molasses?

If you don’t have pomegranate molasses on hand, balsamic glaze or a drizzle of honey mixed with lemon juice can work as a lovely alternative to add sweetness and tang.

Can this salad be made vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan as written, using only plant-based ingredients and olive oil. It’s a fantastic option for everyone to enjoy, no matter your diet.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

To minimize browning, slice the avocado just before adding it to the salad and toss gently with some of the citrus juice, which acts as a natural antioxidant.

What variations can I try with this salad?

Feel free to add toasted nuts for crunch, sprinkle some crumbled feta if you’re not vegan, or swap oranges for grapefruit for a tart twist. The Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe is versatile and welcomes creative changes.

Final Thoughts

This Citrus Brussels Pomegranate Salad Recipe is such a joy to make and serve, effortlessly combining warmth with freshness in a way that delights your taste buds and brightens your table. I truly encourage you to give it a try soon — you might just find yourself making it again and again as a go-to for festive meals or whenever you want a salad that’s truly special.