Orange & Pomegranate Recipe – Refreshing Indian Salad with Olive Oil

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Orange & Pomegranate Recipe – Refreshing Indian Salad With Olive Oil

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just crave something light and incredibly flavorful. This Orange & Pomegranate Salad is exactly that – a burst of sunshine in a bowl! It’s become a bit of a go-to for me, especially during warmer months, or when I need a quick, healthy side dish. Honestly, it’s so simple, it almost doesn’t feel like a recipe, but trust me, the combination of sweet, tangy, and fresh is absolutely addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average salad. It’s a delightful Indian-inspired twist that’s incredibly refreshing. It takes just 10 minutes to whip up, requires minimal effort, and is packed with vitamins. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free! What’s not to love? It’s perfect as a light lunch, a vibrant side, or even a palate cleanser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this little slice of heaven:

• 2 cups oranges, skin removed (about 2 medium oranges)
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds (arils)
• 2-3 sprigs coriander leaves, freshly chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about getting the best flavors! A few little things can make a big difference.

Oranges: Choosing the Right Variety

I love using Navel oranges for this salad because they’re super sweet and easy to peel. But feel free to experiment! Mandarin oranges or even blood oranges would add a beautiful color and unique flavor. Just make sure they’re seedless for the best experience.

Pomegranate Seeds: Fresh vs. Store-Bought

Fresh pomegranate seeds are always best – that vibrant crunch is unbeatable! But if you’re short on time, store-bought pomegranate arils are a perfectly good substitute. Just check the packaging to ensure they haven’t been treated with any additives.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Quality Matters

A good quality extra virgin olive oil really shines in this simple salad. Look for one with a fruity aroma and a slightly peppery finish. It adds a lovely richness that complements the sweetness of the oranges and pomegranate.

Coriander Leaves: Regional Variations & Substitutes

Coriander (cilantro) is a staple in Indian cuisine, and it adds such a fresh, herbaceous note. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with mint, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. My grandmother always used a little extra coriander – she believed it aided digestion!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s so easy, you’ll be enjoying this salad in no time.

1. First, in a bowl, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and add a pinch of salt. Give it a good whisk to combine.
2. Now, gently add the peeled orange slices and the beautiful ruby-red pomegranate seeds to the bowl.
3. Toss everything together very gently, making sure the oranges and pomegranate are lightly coated with the olive oil and salt. You don’t want to bruise the fruit!
4. Finally, sprinkle in the freshly chopped coriander leaves. Give it one last gentle toss and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years…

• Don’t overdress the salad! A light coating of olive oil is all you need.
• Serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the oranges will start to release their juices over time.
• Taste and adjust. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt if needed.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level: Adding a Touch of Chili

My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny pinch of red chili flakes for a little kick. It’s a fantastic addition if you enjoy a bit of heat!

Festival Adaptations: A Summer Celebration Salad

During summer festivals, my family often adds a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder for a warm, earthy flavor. It’s especially delicious during mango season!

Vegan Adaptation: Naturally Vegan!

Good news – this recipe is already naturally vegan! No modifications needed.

Gluten-Free: Naturally Gluten-Free!

This salad is also naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile!

Pairing with Indian Meals

It’s a wonderful accompaniment to heavier Indian dishes like biryani or rich curries. The freshness cuts through the richness beautifully.

As a Light Dessert

Believe it or not, this salad also makes a surprisingly refreshing light dessert! It’s a perfect way to end a meal without feeling overly full.

Storage Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. Keep in mind that the oranges will release their juices, so the salad may become a bit soggy.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

I wouldn’t recommend preparing it too far in advance, as the oranges will start to get soggy. But you can peel the oranges and chop the coriander ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Then, just toss everything together when you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have fresh pomegranate seeds?

Store-bought pomegranate arils are a perfectly acceptable substitute! Just make sure they’re fresh and haven’t been sitting around for too long.

Can I use another type of oil instead of olive oil?

While olive oil is my preference, you could use avocado oil or even a light vegetable oil in a pinch. However, the flavor won’t be quite the same.

What kind of oranges work best in this recipe?

Navel oranges are my go-to, but Mandarin oranges, blood oranges, or any seedless variety will work well.

How can I adjust the saltiness of the salad?

Start with a small pinch of salt and taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Is it possible to add other fruits to this salad?

Absolutely! A few slices of pear or grapes would be a lovely addition. Feel free to get creative!

Enjoy this little taste of sunshine! I hope you love it as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!