Variations: This type of salad lends itself well to variation in the following ways:
Cooked red or golden beets pair well with spinach.
Walnuts, slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds make fine substitutes for the pecans.
Finely chopped Brussels sprouts or broccoli are nice additions.
Arugula leaves, green or red onion slices, tomato, and/or cucumber would also work.
Cooked cubes of winter squash would be great.
Try golden raisins, dried cherries, or tangerine segments instead of pomegranates.
Any type of lettuce or packaged greens will work instead of spinach.

Dressing: This is a fun dressing that reminds me of a margarita drink, with its sweet but zesty flavor. But feel free to use your favorite dressing with this salad, or use a good quality balsamic vinegar if you want to keep it really simple, or lemon or lime juice.