Rosh Hashanah Arugula & Pomegranate Salad – Elegant Holiday Presentation

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings)

4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried

1 cup pomegranate seeds

1 crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced

¼ cup walnuts or pecans, toasted (kosher)

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon kosher honey

Pinch of salt and pepper

Optional garnish: edible flowers or fresh herbs (mint, parsley)

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Instructions & Plating Tips

1. Prepare the dressing:

Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Assemble the salad in layers:

Place a bed of arugula on a large, shallow platter.

Arrange apple slices in a circular pattern over the greens.

Sprinkle pomegranate seeds generously over the apples.

Scatter toasted nuts evenly.

3. Drizzle dressing just before serving:

Use a small spoon to drizzle lightly over the top, ensuring all ingredients are lightly coated without wilting the arugula.

4. Add finishing touches:

Garnish with fresh mint or parsley leaves for a pop of green.

Optional: Add edible flowers (like nasturtiums) for a festive touch.

5. Pairing suggestions:

Serve alongside kosher challah and a small dish of honey to dip the apples.

Include a small Rosh Hashanah blessing card at the table for added symbolism.

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Biblical & Symbolic Significance

Pomegranate: Abundance and righteousness (Song of Solomon 4:13)

Apple & honey: Sweetness for the year ahead (Numbers 6:24-26)

Greens/arugula: Life, vitality, and renewal in God’s creation

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💡 Visual Tip: Use a white or light-colored platter to make the deep red pomegranate seeds and golden apple slices pop. A clear glass salad bowl works beautifully too, letting the layers shine.