Persimmon Salad with Yogurt Dressing

This Persimmon Salad with Yogurt Dressing features a delightful combination of persimmons, grapefruit, watercress, and pomegranate seeds. The yogurt dressing ties everything together in a harmonious and creamy way. This salad is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of the season.

In the world of salads, there’s no limit to what you can create, and this persimmon salad with yogurt dressing is a masterpiece. This dish combines the sweetness of fresh persimmons, the tang of grapefruit, the peppery bite of watercress, and the burst of pomegranate seeds, all beautifully tied together with a creamy yogurt dressing.

Persimmons are one of my favorite winter fruits and I enjoy them in different ways. Add chunks to your granola or bake jammy thumbprint cookies with them – they are the best! I can talk about them for hours but let’s head straight into making this winter salad recipe.

Ingredients for Persimmon Salad

Persimmon: The star of the show, persimmons contributes their delightful sweetness and a slightly spicy undertone to the salad. For the best results, choose Fuyu persimmons, which are sweet and crisp.

Grapefruit: The grapefruit adds a refreshing citrusy punch and a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of persimmons. Select ruby red or pink grapefruit for their vibrant color and juiciness.

Watercress: Watercress contributes a peppery and slightly nutty flavor, offering a crisp and refreshing crunch to the salad. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins and minerals.

Pomegranate Seeds: Pomegranate seeds provide bright pops of juicy, sweet-tart flavor, enhancing the salad’s visual appeal and taste. They are also rich in antioxidants and add a delightful crunch.

Plain Greek Yogurt: The yogurt serves as the creamy and tangy base for the dressing, providing a cooling contrast to the other ingredients. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and probiotics.

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a zesty, acidic element to the dressing, brightening the overall flavor. It also helps prevent the persimmons from browning.

Salt and Pepper: These seasonings enhance the taste of the salad, adding depth and balance to the dressing. Use sea salt or kosher salt for a more distinct flavor.

Olive Oil: Olive oil helps emulsify the dressing and provides a smooth, mellow note to the overall taste. Choose extra virgin olive oil for its rich, fruity flavor.

Substitutions

• Oranges or tangerines can be used as an alternative to grapefruit, maintaining the citrusy notes in the salad. Blood oranges can also be a visually striking substitute with their deep red shade.
• If you can’t find watercress, arugula can serve as a peppery replacement. Arugula’s slightly spicy flavor complements the dish.
• Pomegranate seeds can be substituted with dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness and texture.
• Non-dairy yogurt alternatives like almond or coconut yogurt will work well for those with dairy restrictions. These alternatives will maintain the creaminess of the dressing too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the ingredients:

• Wash and dry the watercress thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt.
• Peel and thinly slice the grapefruit, take care to remove any seeds and piths.
• Cut the persimmons into thin wedges. Leave the skin on for added color and texture.
• Extract pomegranate seeds (arils), being careful not to rupture the seeds. Set all aside.

Make the yogurt dressing:

• In a bowl, whisk together plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
• Gradually drizzle in olive oil while whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This process emulsifies the ingredients, ensuring the dressing stays well-mixed. Set aside.

Assemble the salad:

• Scoop a large dollop of the yogurt dressing in the middle of the plate. Use a tablespoon to make a bed by spreading it in a circular motion.
• Place the persimmon slices and grapefruit segments on top of the dressing, artfully arranging them. Make sure you have fun with your arrangement!
• Arrange the watercress on top of everything.
• Sprinkle pomegranate seeds generously over the salad. The contrast of the ruby red seeds against the green and orange backdrop is visually stunning and flavorful.
• Serve immediately.

How to make the best persimmon salad recipe

• Use ripe but firm persimmons to maintain their texture in the salad. Fuyu persimmons, which resemble tomatoes, are the best choice for this dish. They should be slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy.
• To easily remove pomegranate seeds, cut the fruit horizontally, hold half over a bowl (cut side down), and gently tap the back with a wooden spoon. The seeds will fall into the bowl without spraying juice.
• Chill the salad and dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep the watercress crisp. This also prevents the salad from becoming overly soggy due to the dressing.

Serving Options

This persimmon salad with yogurt dressing can be served in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

1. Appetizer: Present this salad in small portions as an elegant appetizer at a dinner party or special occasion. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors will captivate your guests’ palates.
2. Side Dish: As a side dish, it complements a wide range of main courses. Try it with grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or roasted salmon for a balanced and nutritious meal.
3. Light Lunch: Serve a generous portion of this salad as a light lunch, especially on warm days when a refreshing and satisfying meal is in order. Add some toasted bread or a crusty baguette for a more filling option.
4. Picnic Fare: Pack this salad in individual containers or mason jars for a delightful picnic option. The sturdy watercress holds up well, and the yogurt dressing won’t wilt the greens.
5. Holiday Table: The jewel-toned pomegranate seeds and bright citrus make this salad an excellent addition to holiday feasts, whether for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a welcome burst of freshness amidst richer dishes.
6. Potluck Contribution: Bring this salad to potluck gatherings and watch it disappear quickly. It’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Variations and Customization

1. Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, savory touch. The salty and tangy feta complements the sweetness of the fruit and the yogurt dressing.
2. Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra freshness and aroma. Chopped mint leaves bring a bright, herbal note, while basil adds a hint of anise-like sweetness.
3. Top with avocado slices for a creamy, buttery element. Avocado’s luscious texture and mild flavor provide a delightful contrast to the other ingredients.
4. Substitute honey for a touch of sweetness in the dressing. A drizzle of honey adds a warm, sweet note to the yogurt dressing, balancing the acidity of the lemon juice.
5. Experiment with nuts: Toasted almonds or candied pecans can provide a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the fruit and greens. A handful of crushed walnuts can add a mild bitterness for a more complex flavor profile.

FAQs about making Persimmon Salad

This persimmon salad with yogurt dressing is a delightful and versatile dish that offers a wide range of serving options, making it a go-to choice for various occasions. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory elements, along with the interplay of different textures, creates a masterpiece that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a light, healthy meal, this salad is sure to be a winner. Enjoy the refreshing medley of flavors in every bite!