Festive Pear Pomegranate Salsa is made to stun your guests at any holiday gathering. In this version, I added a little twist. We recently hosted the cast party for Eastern Shore Ballet Theater’s annual Nutcracker performance. All participants were amazing! Through years of dedication to perfect their art form, and the direction of Miss Elena, they crafted an amazing depiction of the Nutcracker. Thus, there must be a celebration for their hours of practice, publicity and genuine gratitude to bringing such beauty and grace to our little Eastern Shore.
The seniors’ parents, Angela, Deb and I, planned what we would hope to be a memorable evening. After about 4 hours of appetizers, food, sweets and traditions, the party dissipated. If time was an indicator of success, I believe we hit the jackpot! One of the items commented on repeatedly was the Festive Pear Pomegranate Salsa. I promised those who requested the recipe that I would try to blog it this week so they could create it for their holiday gatherings. So, here it is!
Who has time to seed a pomegranate? You do, of course! In spite of what you hear, there are various ways to seed a fresh pomegranate. I find the easiest way to be under water! I cut a portion of the top off and make about 6 slits down the sides. Peel these back and gently break it into chunks and place it into a bowl of cold water. By rubbing the seeds under the water, they release quite easily from the membrane. Pieces of the membrane will float to the top for easy removal or skim off using a small fine mesh strainer.
Next, slice pears in half and core. I find the my melon baller is perfect for this task! Take each half and thinly slice then dice as shown below.
Chop cilantro and dice onion. Gently toss all ingredients together with squeezed lime juice.
The version shown at the top of the post includes the walnuts and feta cheese. This just took it over the top! If you have vegan/vegetarians invited, just leave out those additions and it will be just perfect for everyone!
Prep time:
Total time:
- 1 pomegranate, seeded
- 2 pears, halved, cored, sliced then diced(Use 3 if small.)
- ½ c. chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ c. red onion, finely chopped
- 1 lime(about 2 T. freshly squeezed)
- *1/2 c. crumbled feta(optional)
- *1/2 c. walnuts, chopped(optional)
- Seed pomegranate,
- Halve, core, slice and dice pears.
- Chop cilantro and dice red onion.
- Place all desired ingredients in a glass bowl and gently toss with lime juice.
- This is wonderful served with lime or sweet potato chips!
One of my absolute favorites!!!