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Pear Salad Recipe

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Short Description

Pear salad is a fresh, crisp, and flavorful dish featuring juicy pears, crunchy nuts, tangy cheese, and a light homemade dressing. Perfect for a side dish, light lunch, or holiday gathering, this refreshing salad is both simple and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh and light – Juicy pears add natural sweetness and crunch.
  • Perfect balance of flavors – Sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
  • Quick and easy – Ready in just 10 minutes.
  • Great for any occasion – Works as a side dish or a light main meal.
  • Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

  • Pears (sliced, any variety like Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc)
  • Mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
  • Blue cheese or feta (crumbled)
  • Candied or toasted walnuts (or pecans)
  • Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
  • Red onion (thinly sliced, optional)

For the Dressing:

  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper

Directions

this recipe
  1. Make the dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  2. Assemble the salad – Arrange mixed greens on a plate or bowl. Top with sliced pears, cheese, nuts, and dried cranberries.
  3. Drizzle with dressing – Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve immediately – Enjoy as a side dish or add protein for a full meal.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Protein boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
  • Extra crunch – Toss in sliced almonds or sunflower seeds.
  • Cheese swap – Try goat cheese, Parmesan, or sharp cheddar.
  • Citrus twist – Add orange slices or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
  • Spicy kick – Sprinkle with black pepper or red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Dressing storage: Keep dressing in a separate jar for up to 5 days.
  • Serving: Toss with dressing just before eating to keep greens fresh.

FAQs

What’s the best pear variety for salad?

Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc pears work well for their sweetness and firmness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Store ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.

How do I keep pears from browning?

Toss sliced pears with a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes! Poppy seed, raspberry vinaigrette, or a simple honey mustard dressing work great.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients like candied nuts are gluten-free.

Can I add fresh herbs?

Absolutely! Fresh basil or mint adds extra freshness.

What’s the best way to toast nuts?

Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Can I use apples instead of pears?

Yes! Apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji make a great substitute.

How do I make this salad more filling?

Add quinoa, farro, or roasted sweet potatoes for extra substance.

What pairs well with this salad?

It’s great with grilled meats, soups, or a fresh baguette.

Conclusion

Pear salad is a simple yet elegant dish that balances sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors perfectly. Whether served as a light meal or a side dish, this refreshing salad is sure to be a favorite. Try it today for a delicious and healthy addition to your menu!

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Pear Salad Recipe

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  • Author: clara
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
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Description

This Pear Salad is a refreshing and elegant dish made with sweet, juicy pears, crisp greens, crunchy nuts, and tangy cheese, all drizzled with a light honey balsamic dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light, healthy meal!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad:

  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine)
  • 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or goat cheese/feta)
  • 1/3 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or pomegranate seeds)
  • 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, add mixed greens.
  2. Layer with pear slices, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.

Step 3: Toss & Serve

  1. Drizzle with the honey balsamic dressing and toss gently to coat.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Nut-Free Option: Swap nuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
  • Make It Heartier: Add grilled chicken or quinoa.
  • Cheese Substitutes: Use goat cheese, feta, or shaved Parmesan.
  • Storage: Best served fresh, but store dressing separately for up to 2 days.

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