Description
This Pear Salad recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for autumn. It features fresh, juicy pears paired with a crisp salad greens blend, topped with shaved parmesan, crumbled feta or goat cheese, candied pecans, and dried cranberries. The salad is dressed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette that balances the flavors beautifully. Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad makes a refreshing and elegant starter or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
- 8 oz salad greens blend
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shaved (not grated)
- 2 pears, thinly sliced (Bartlett or Anjou pears)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing: Add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Blend for about 20 seconds until all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Store the Dressing: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Layer the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens and thinly sliced pears. Add about three-quarters of the prepared dressing and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Add Cheese and Nuts: Sprinkle the shaved parmesan cheese, dried cranberries, and roughly chopped candied pecans over the tossed greens and pears.
- Drizzle with Remaining Dressing: Garnish the salad with crumbled feta or goat cheese, then drizzle the remaining dressing on top for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness and vibrant textures.
Notes
- For candied pecans, you can roast pecans with brown sugar and a pinch of spice like cinnamon to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Bartlett and Anjou pears are preferred for their sweetness and texture but other firm, sweet pears can be used.
- Shaved parmesan provides a better texture contrast than grated cheese.
- Use goat cheese if you prefer a tangier flavor instead of feta.
- Store leftover dressing in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Serve immediately after assembling for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pear salad, balsamic vinaigrette, candied pecans, autumn salad, fresh pears, healthy salad
