Irresistible Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese Recipe

The sweet crunch of fresh pears, the earthy richness of walnuts, and the sharp tang of blue cheese create a symphony of flavors in this Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese. Picture this: you’re at a picnic on a sunny afternoon, the laughter of friends fills the air, and you take a bite of this salad that tastes like pure bliss.

This salad isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl. I remember the first time I tried it at my Aunt Margaret’s backyard barbecue. She claimed it was her secret weapon for impressing dinner guests, and let me tell you, it worked like magic. Now, every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to those sunny days filled with family and laughter. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy winter dinner, this salad fits right in, promising an explosion of flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Pears: Choose ripe yet firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for optimal sweetness and texture.
• Walnuts: Opt for toasted walnuts for added crunch and flavor; they elevate the dish significantly.
• Blue Cheese: Crumbled blue cheese brings bold creaminess; look for high-quality varieties for the best taste.
• Mixed Greens: Use a mix of arugula and spinach for a peppery kick that balances the sweetness of the pears.
• Balsamic Vinaigrette: A homemade vinaigrette made from balsamic vinegar adds depth; store-bought works in a pinch too.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing your mixed greens thoroughly under cold water. Dry them using a salad spinner or pat them down with paper towels until they are crisp and dry.

Step 2: Slice Those Pears

Slice your fresh pears into thin wedges. Aim for about six pieces per pear – we want each bite bursting with juicy goodness.

Step 3: Toast Your Walnuts

In a skillet over medium heat, toast your walnuts for about five minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Stay close to avoid burning them; nobody likes burnt nuts!

Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar with olive oil (a ratio of 1: 3), add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the dressing emulsifies and thickens slightly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large serving bowl, toss together your mixed greens, pear slices, toasted walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese. Drizzle generously with your balsamic vinaigrette.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer to plates or serve family-style in one big bowl! Don’t forget to drizzle extra dressing on top if desired – because who doesn’t love more flavor?

Now sit back and enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite of your delightful Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your ingredients: slice the pears, chop the walnuts, and crumble the blue cheese. Assemble them in a large bowl while whisking together your dressing. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and ready for that Instagram-worthy salad moment.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add your flair! Swap walnuts for pecans or toss in some dried cranberries for sweetness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint can elevate the flavors even further, making your salad uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Pear & Walnut Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To maintain crispness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy this refreshing dish again.

Sometimes when I’m whipping up this Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese, my friends can’t believe something so simple can be so delicious. One time, my neighbor declared it “life-changing,” which honestly made my day!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese?

To make a delicious Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese, you will need fresh pears, walnuts, blue cheese, mixed greens, and a simple vinaigrette. For the dressing, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper are essential. You can also add optional ingredients such as dried cranberries or sliced red onions for extra flavor. This combination creates a delightful balance of sweetness from the pears and crunchiness from the walnuts while the blue cheese adds a rich tang.

How can I make the dressing for Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese?

Creating the dressing for your Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese is simple. Combine three parts olive oil to one part balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk the mixture until it emulsifies. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a bit of crumbled blue cheese to this blend. This homemade vinaigrette enhances the flavors of the salad without overpowering them.

Can I prepare Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese in advance?

Yes, you can prepare certain components of your Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese in advance. Wash and dry your mixed greens and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Slice the pears just before serving to prevent browning. You may also toast walnuts ahead of time; however, keep them separate until ready to serve to maintain their crunchiness. Assemble everything just before mealtime for optimal freshness.

What are some variations of Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese?

There are several delightful variations you can explore when making Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese. Consider adding grilled chicken or salmon for added protein or using goat cheese instead of blue cheese if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also switch up the nuts by using pecans or almonds. Incorporating seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or figs can enhance both presentation and taste.

Conclusion for Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese :

In summary, crafting a Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese is not only easy but also rewarding. This salad brings together fresh ingredients that create a stunning dish perfect for any occasion. By incorporating simple steps like preparing your vinaigrette and selecting high-quality produce, you ensure that every bite is flavorful. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or main meal, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will impress your guests!

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Pear & Walnut Salad with Blue Cheese

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: Tossing
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Experience a delightful blend of sweet pears, crunchy walnuts, and creamy blue cheese in this vibrant salad—ideal for any gathering or as a light meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula and spinach)
• 2 ripe pears, sliced
• 1 cup toasted walnuts
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash mixed greens thoroughly under cold water and dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels.
2. Slice the pears into thin wedges, aiming for six pieces per pear for juicy bites.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for about five minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil (1:3 ratio). Add salt and pepper to taste until emulsified.
5. In a large serving bowl, toss mixed greens, pear slices, toasted walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese. Drizzle generously with vinaigrette.
6. Transfer to plates or serve family-style in one big bowl, adding extra dressing on top if desired.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For added flavor, substitute walnuts with pecans or include dried cranberries. Fresh herbs such as mint can enhance the taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days; keep dressing separate until ready to serve.