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Autumn Chestnut and Pomegranate Salad

This salad combines tender chestnuts and roasted seasonal vegetables with fresh pomegranate seeds, finished with olive oil for a warm, balanced dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Cuisine: seasonal
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup chestnuts (fully peeled before roasting so they tenderize properly)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes) cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the peeled, chestnuts and the chopped vegetables on a baking sheet, then drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  2. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, filling your kitchen with warm, toasty aromas.
  3. While the vegetables roast, heat a small skillet over medium heat and toast the chestnuts until golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This enhances their earthy sweetness and adds crunch.
  4. Once the roasted vegetables and chestnuts are ready, transfer them to a large mixing bowl and let them cool slightly to prevent wilting the pomegranate seeds.
  5. Add the pomegranate seeds to the bowl, then drizzle everything with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Gently fold the ingredients together, allowing the bright seeds to distribute evenly among the warm roasted veggies and nuts.
  6. Serve the salad immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of salt or pepper if desired, showing a vibrant mix of textures and colors that celebrate the harvest season.

Notes

Best served warm or at room temperature. Add pomegranate seeds just before serving for the best texture.