Winter Pomegranate Slaw

This salad was inspired by a deli offering at Seattle co-op grocery store, PCC Natural Markets. The first time I ate it, I absolutely inhaled it. I was just like, I need more of this. SO. MUCH. MORE. I was determined to figure out the recipe based on the ingredient list—and add a little of my own flair, of course—and finally got around to it last week.

I don’t think I’d ever had pomegranate seeds in anything before, and I certainly would have never thought to pair them with Brussels sprouts and fennel, but the combo is absolutely perfect. You taste a slight burst of sweetness with every bite, and I added sunflower seeds and extra sliced almonds to give it great crunch.

I eat this as a main dish, loading up a big ol’ bowl, but it would make a great holiday dinner side. My family does a big dinner Christmas Eve and a big breakfast Christmas morning, so I’m planning to make a big batch of it for everyone to dish up whenever the mood strikes on Christmas afternoon.

Enjoy this one!
M

Winter Pomegranate Slaw
Ready in: 15 min
Serves: 6 to 8  

Ingredients:
1-1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, shredded (should amout to about 6 cups)
1 fennel bulb and stalks, shredded
1-1/2 cups sliced almonds
1 cup pomegranate seeds/arils
1 cup roasted, salted sunflower seeds
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup golden balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

1. Cut the ends off the Brussels sprouts, then put them in a food processor (with the blade insert). Pulse until sliced into a slaw. Pour into a large bowl.
2. Cut fennel into small chunks, place in food processor, and pulse until sliced into a slaw. Pour into bowl with sliced Brussels sprouts.
3. Mince garlic.
4. Remove thyme leaves from stems and mince.
5. In a small bowl, stir together garlic, thyme, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6.  Pour dressing over slaw and toss until coated.
7. Pour in sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and pomegranate seeds. Stir until mixed.
   
8. Serve right away, or refrigerate, covered.