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
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add mixed greens.
- Layer with pear slices, crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and red onion.
Step 3: Toss & Serve
- Drizzle with the honey balsamic dressing and toss gently to coat.
- 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.