Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Pear and blue cheese salad is a classic combination of sweet, juicy pears paired with creamy, tangy blue cheese. This salad not only showcases contrasting flavors but also combines textures that create a harmonious balance.

The addition of crunchy walnuts, crisp salad greens, and a simple vinaigrette dressing enhances the overall experience. Perfect for a light lunch, an appetizer, or a side dish for a larger meal, this pear and blue cheese salad is easy to prepare yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Follow this recipe to create a delicious salad that celebrates the delightful pairing of pears and blue cheese.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and frisée)
• 2 ripe pears, such as Bartlett or Anjou, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or fresh pomegranate seeds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Wash and Dry the Salad Greens: Rinse the mixed salad greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat them dry with paper towels or spin them in a salad spinner until they are dry. Place them in a large salad bowl.

Slice the Pears: Core the pears and thinly slice them. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Arrange the pear slices on top of the salad greens in the bowl.

Toast the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Let them cool slightly, then roughly chop them.

Prepare Additional Ingredients: Thinly slice the red onion and crumble the blue cheese. Add these to the salad bowl along with the toasted walnuts and dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds, if using.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Combine Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Mix the Dressing: Whisk the ingredients together vigorously until the dressing is emulsified and well combined. Alternatively, you can place all the dressing ingredients in a mason jar, seal the lid tightly, and shake vigorously until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Pour Dressing Over Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl.

Toss the Salad: Gently toss the salad using salad tongs or two large spoons to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Serve

Plate the Salad: Divide the pear and blue cheese salad among individual serving plates or bowls.

Garnish (Optional): Optionally, garnish each serving with additional crumbled blue cheese, toasted walnuts, or a few extra slices of pear for an attractive presentation.

Chef’s Note

Pear Selection: Choose ripe but firm pears for this salad to ensure they hold their shape when sliced. Bartlett and Anjou pears are excellent choices due to their sweetness and texture.

Cheese Alternatives: If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, you can substitute it with goat cheese or feta cheese, which also pair well with pears and add a creamy texture.

Nut Options: If walnuts are not available, you can use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts as substitutes. Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to the salad.

Dressing Variations: For a lighter dressing, you can reduce the amount of olive oil and add a bit more vinegar. Adding a pinch of minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also provide additional depth of flavor.

Protein Addition: To make this salad a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. These proteins complement the flavors well and make the salad heartier.

Preparing Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients for this salad in advance but wait to toss them with the dressing until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Serving Suggestions: This pear and blue cheese salad pairs well with grilled meats, such as chicken or steak, or as a starter for a dinner party. It can also be served with crusty bread or alongside a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugars: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Vitamin A: 25% DV (Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

This pear and blue cheese salad is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse. Pears are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, which support digestive health, immune function, and skin health. Blue cheese provides protein and calcium, while walnuts add healthy fats and omega-3s.

The mixed greens contribute vitamins A and K, essential for vision and bone health. The dressing, made with extra virgin olive oil and vinegar, enhances the flavors while providing healthy fats and antioxidants.

Enjoy this elegant and flavorful salad as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish. Its combination of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors, along with its colorful presentation, makes it a standout dish for any occasion.

With its health benefits and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to include in your repertoire for gatherings and everyday meals alike.

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