Name: Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 25 fresh mint leaves, chopped; 6 Navel oranges, peeled and sliced into rounds; 1 pinch kosher salt; 1 pinch sweet paprika; 1 pinch ground cinnamon; 1 pomegranate, seeded (about 1 to 1 1/4 cups seeds); 1 lime, juiced; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 1/2 teaspoons orange blossom water (optional)

Fresh, bright, and bursting with flavor, this Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly perks up any meal. The juicy oranges paired with tart pomegranate seeds and fragrant mint make every bite a refreshing delight you'll want to keep coming back to.

A white plate holds a colorful salad with four visible layers: the bottom layer is round, thin orange slices with a light dusting of red spice; the second layer consists of thin, pale purple onion slices scattered evenly; the third layer shows bright red pomegranate seeds spread across the dish, adding vibrant dots of color, and the final layer is fresh, torn green mint leaves placed on top and around the other ingredients. The contrast between the orange slices, red seeds, purple onion, and green leaves creates a lively and fresh look. The entire plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I first made this salad on a sunny afternoon when I needed something light but exciting for dinner. It quickly became a favorite because it’s so easy to whip up and tastes far more gourmet than the effort suggests.

Bright, Fresh Flavors: The combination of citrus, mint, and pomegranate is naturally uplifting and palate-cleansing.
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have many of these on hand, making it easy to prepare anytime.
Versatile Side or Starter: It pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to light vegetarian mains.
Stunning Presentation: It looks so vibrant on the table, perfect for impressing guests or brightening meal times.

The image shows a close-up of a colorful salad made of several layers. The bottom layer consists of thin orange slices with a light sprinkle of reddish spice dusted over them. On top of this layer are thin rings of purple onion scattered across. Fresh green mint leaves are spread over the whole dish, adding a bright green color. Small, shiny red pomegranate seeds are sprinkled generously around, adding pops of deep red. The textures vary from the smooth, juicy oranges to the crisp onions and soft mint leaves, all arranged on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This salad is all about balancing sweet, tart, and herbal elements. Each ingredient contributes a special note to the overall flavor and texture, so let’s break down why each one shines in this Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe.

Flat lay of a small pile of thinly sliced red onion rings, a handful of fresh chopped mint leaves, six peeled Navel oranges sliced into rounds arranged in a neat stack, a small white ceramic bowl with bright ruby red pomegranate seeds, a whole fresh lime cut in half showing juicy green flesh, a small white bowl with golden extra virgin olive oil, a small white bowl with amber honey, a tiny heap of kosher salt crystals, small piles of sweet paprika powder and ground cinnamon arranged symmetrically on a simple white ceramic plate, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Red onion: Soaking the thin slices in ice water cuts their sharpness, adding just a gentle bite without overpowering the salad.
Fresh mint leaves: Mint adds a cool, herbaceous lift that beautifully contrasts with the citrus’s sweet tang.
Navel oranges: These are sweet and juicy, providing the main citrus punch. I always pick firm, heavy oranges for the best flavor.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without making the salad salty.
Sweet paprika & ground cinnamon: These spices add warmth and an unexpected depth that harmonizes with the fruit.
Pomegranate seeds: The jewel-like seeds bring a burst of tartness and a lovely crunch that makes the salad feel festive.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime brightens the dressing and balances the sweetness.
Extra virgin olive oil: A splash of good olive oil rounds out the dressing with a smooth richness.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps marry the flavors in the dressing.
Orange blossom water (optional): Gives a subtle floral note that feels wonderfully exotic.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe is how adaptable it is. I often tweak it depending on the season or what’s in my pantry, and you can too!

Variation: Sometimes, I swap out oranges for a mix of blood oranges and grapefruit for a tangier, more colorful salad. It’s a small change but adds a lovely dimension.
Diet-Friendly: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan (if you skip the honey or use a plant-based alternative).
Spice it Up: Adding a tiny pinch of chili flakes gives a subtle heat that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet and citrus flavors.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Onion Perfectly

Start by placing the thinly sliced red onion in a bowl of ice water. Let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes; this takes away the harsh bite and leaves you with onions that add the perfect mild crunch. Don’t skip drying them thoroughly afterward – wet onions can water down the salad.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing

While the onions soften, whisk together fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, honey, and orange blossom water if you’re using it. This combo brings the sweet, floral, and zesty notes that tie the whole salad together.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

On a serving platter, scatter half the chopped mint leaves as a fresh green bed. Layer the orange slices and softened onions over the mint. Then sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt, sweet paprika, and ground cinnamon all over the fruit and onions – this little spice mix is what makes the salad memorable. Finally, sprinkle the pomegranate seeds generously on top.

Step 4: Dress and Rest

Drizzle the dressing over the salad—feel free to start with a little and add more to taste. Scatter the remaining fresh mint leaves on top for an added pop of color and flavor. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors mingle and develop.

Top Tip

Through several attempts, I learned that soaking the onions is a game changer — it ensures your salad tastes balanced and fresh, without that overpowering onion sharpness. Also, don't rush the resting time after drizzling the dressing; it really lets all those flavors come together beautifully.

The Onion Soak: Don’t skip this step! It mellows the onion and keeps your salad bright.
Adjust Dressing Gradually: Start with less dressing—you can always add more to avoid overdressing.
Use Fresh Citrus: Choose firm, heavy oranges for juiciness and sweetness.
Rest Before Serving: Give it 5 minutes so the spices and juice soak in nicely.

How to Serve Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe

citrus pomegranate salad - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love to finish this salad with a few extra mint leaves scattered on top and sometimes a light sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for that jewel-like sparkle. Adding a few edible flowers when feeling fancy can also make the presentation unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, but I often enjoy it alongside Mediterranean mezze like hummus, warm pita, or stuffed grape leaves. It’s also a refreshing starter before a heavier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, try layering the salad in a clear glass trifle bowl—those bright layers of orange, pomegranate, and mint are stunning. Alternatively, serve individual portions in small bowls or pretty glasses for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers covered tightly in the fridge. The salad stays fresh for up to 2 days, but the oranges may release more juice over time, so give it a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the flavors.

Freezing

Because of the fresh fruit and mint, I don’t recommend freezing this salad—it won’t hold up well and will lose its vibrant texture.

Reheating

This is one salad best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. Just let it sit out for 10 minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I prepare the Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the oranges, pomegranate seeds, and dressing in advance, but I recommend assembling the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

What if I don’t have orange blossom water?

No worries if you don’t have orange blossom water; it’s optional. The dressing will still be flavorful with just lime juice, olive oil, and honey.

Can I substitute other citrus fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Grapefruit, blood oranges, or mandarins work beautifully and add different flavor notes and color to the salad.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?

Dry the onion slices well after soaking and don’t overcoat the salad with dressing until just before serving. This keeps the salad crisp and fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Citrus and Pomegranate Salad with Mint Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen—it's like a fresh breeze on a plate. If you want a dish that’s simple, vibrant, and sure to make you smile, give this salad a try. I promise it's as delightful to make as it is to eat!