This pear salad is fresh and crunchy, tossed with sweet slices of pear and dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s like a little party for your taste buds!
Honestly, the balance of the sweet pears and the sharp vinaigrette makes this salad a winner. I love serving it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. It’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Salad Greens: A mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine gives variety and flavor. You can substitute with any leafy greens you like. Kale or baby spinach can work well too!
Pears: Ripe pears are sweet and juicy. If pears aren’t available, try apples or peaches for a similar texture and flavor.
Cheese: Goat cheese adds creaminess, but feta can also bring great flavor. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try a cashew cheese or skip it entirely.
Pecans: Toasted pecans add a lovely crunch. You can swap them with walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds depending on what you have on hand.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for the vinaigrette’s flavor. White balsamic or red wine vinegar can substitute if you prefer something milder or different.
How Can I Make the Perfect Balsamic Vinaigrette?
The vinaigrette makes this salad shine, and it’s simple to whip up. Follow these steps to get a smooth and flavorful dressing.
- Start with balsamic vinegar and blend in Dijon mustard for a kick.
- Slowly whisk in olive oil. This helps emulsify the mixture, making it creamy instead of separating.
- Add honey if you want a touch of sweetness. Remember to taste your vinaigrette; adjust with more vinegar or oil if needed.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper. A pinch of salt is really important in bringing out the flavors!
How to Make Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pear Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare! You can serve it immediately, or if you prefer a chilled salad, let it sit in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before enjoying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by placing the mixed salad greens in a large salad bowl. Next, add the thinly sliced pears, crumbled cheese, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Give these ingredients a gentle mix to get them combined. It’ll look colorful and inviting!
2. Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey (if you’re using it). Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
3. Combine and Serve:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Now, toss everything gently to combine. Make sure all the salad ingredients are well coated with the dressing. If you’d like, chill the salad in the fridge for about 10 minutes for a refreshing taste. Then serve and enjoy your delicious Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette!
Can I Substitute the Cheese in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of goat cheese or feta, you can use crumbled blue cheese, sliced avocado, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences!
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Yes! You can easily swap out pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you prefer a nut-free option. Just toast them lightly for enhanced flavor and crunch before adding to the salad.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad ingredients and dressing separately in airtight containers. The salad can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to add the vinaigrette right before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the balsamic vinaigrette in advance. Just combine all the dressing ingredients in a jar, shake well, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate.
