One Thanksgiving, Janet was asked to bring a fruit salad. With fall fruit, that can be a challenge. So we put our heads together and helped her come up with this Asian pear and persimmon salad with pomegranate seeds, dried cranberries, and spiced pecans. It takes fruit salad in a savory direction that goes especially well with the flavors of an autumn meal. And you don’t even have to make a dressing, because when you toss everything together, the coating on the pecans starts to dissolve into the oil and lemon juice and that does the job for you.
Ingredients
SERVES 4 TO 6
- 1/2 cup pecan pieces
- 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2/3 lb Fuyu persimmons (about 2 persimmons)
- 3/4 lb Asian or green pears (about 2 pears)
- 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 red Belgian endive, cut into 1/4-inch-wide rings
- 8 large leaves mint, torn
- 3/4 teaspoon sel gris
Instructions
To make the spiced pecans: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Spray a quarter sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the pecans on the prepared pan and toast in the oven for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the sugar, cumin, cayenne, paprika, coriander, and salt. When the pecans are ready, immediately add them to the spice mixture along with the vinegar and toss to coat evenly. Return the pecans to the sheet pan and toast for 5 minutes longer, until fragrant and candied. Pour onto a plate to cool.
To prepare the fruit: Cut the persimmons and pears into 12 wedges each, trimming away the cores.
To assemble and serve: In a large, shallow serving bowl, combine the persimmons, pears, pomegranate seeds, cranberries, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, endive, mint, sel gris, and the cooled pecans. Toss to combine and serve immediately.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
When it comes to pairing wine with this vibrant fall fruit salad, consider a light, crisp white like a Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine to balance the sweetness of the fruit and the spice from the pecans. A dry Riesling also works beautifully, as its acidity can enhance the salad's flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir can complement the fruit's richness while adding a lovely depth.
For all your wine needs, check out YourWineStore, where you can conveniently buy the perfect bottle of wine online. We offer a wide selection of wines that pair wonderfully with your fall dishes and desserts. Plus, shopping online means you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than running around the store!