Winter Citrus Pomegranate Fruit Salad Food

WINTER CITRUS & POMEGRANATE FRUIT SALAD

Steps:

• Place the pomegranate on a surface that won't stain. Starting at the crown, cut a cross into the fruit about halfway down. Put a large bowl in the sink and, holding the pomegranate crown side down over the bowl, break it apart into quarters. Squeeze each quarter firmly over the bowl to release the seeds and juice, then bend each quarter back to release more seeds. (Don't worry about getting all the seeds out. What you really want is the juice, so squeeze the pomegranate again to release the juice from any remaining seeds still attached to the fruit.) Pick out any bits of the white membrane so all that remains in the bowl are seeds and juice.
• For the oranges and grapefruits, cut a slice off the top and bottom of each fruit so they sit flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, work your way around the fruits to remove all the skin and pith. Cupping the fruit in one hand and working over the bowl, carefully cut the segments out from between the membranes. (Be sure to cut only until you reach the middle of the fruit!) Firmly squeeze the remaining membranes over the bowl to release all the juices. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Be sure to serve this fruit salad in bowls, so the juice can be spooned up with the fruit.
• Note: Pomegranate juice will stain wooden cutting boards and some countertops. To be safe, you can cut pomegranates on disposable plastic shopping bags.

CITRUS SALAD WITH POMEGRANATE

Steps:

• Cut the pomegranate into quarters, then press back the outer skin to push the seeds out into a bowl.
• Using a sharp knife, cut a slice off the top and bottom of the grapefruit, then remove the peel and pith, cutting downward. Cut out the segments from between the membranes, then add to the pomegranate.
• Finely grate the rind of half an orange and set aside. Using a sharp knife, cut a slice off the top and bottom of both oranges, then remove the peel and pith, cutting downward and being careful to retain the shape of the oranges. Slice horizontally into slices, then cut into quarters. Add the oranges to the pomegranate and grapefruit and stir to mix well.
• Combine the orange rind with the lime rind, garlic, vinegar, lime juice, sugar and mustard in a nonmetallic bowl. Season to taste, then whisk in the oil.
• Cut the avocado in half lengthwise and twist the 2 halves in opposite directions to separate. Stab the pit with the point of a sharp knife and lift out. Carefully peel off the skin, dice the flesh, and toss in lime juice to prevent discoloration.
• Place the lettuce in a serving bowl. Top with the fruit and avocado then pour over the dressing and toss. Garnish with the onion and serve immediately.