Cranberry Pear Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Cranberry Pear Salad because it perfectly balances sweet and savory elements in every bite. The sweetness of ripe pears and dried cranberries complements the fresh greens and creamy cheese, while the tangy dressing ties it all together. It’s a light, refreshing salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to make, and with its festive color palette, it’s the perfect dish for the fall and winter seasons.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale)

• 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta, goat cheese, or blue cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional)

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar), Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Gradually add the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Set aside.

2. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, dried cranberries, crumbled cheese (if using), toasted walnuts or pecans (if using), and red onion (if using).

3. Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a more filling meal, top the salad with grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted chickpeas.

• Use different nuts: Instead of walnuts or pecans, you can try toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or cashews for a different flavor.

• Make it vegan: Skip the cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.

• Add more fruit: Apple slices, pomegranate seeds, or figs would be a great addition to this salad for extra sweetness and color.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the dressing can cause the greens to wilt over time. However, if you have leftovers:

• Storage: Store the salad components (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

• Storage for the dressing: Keep the dressing in a separate container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Reassembly: Reassemble the salad and drizzle the dressing over the top just before serving. Add the cheese and nuts last to prevent them from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients (except the pears and dressing) ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Add the pears and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.

How do I prevent the pears from browning?

To prevent the pears from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This helps preserve their color and freshness.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are much more tart than dried cranberries, so you could use them if you prefer, but be sure to sweeten them slightly (with sugar or honey) to balance the flavor.

How do I make this salad spicier?

For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or a dash of hot sauce over the salad.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

The salad ingredients (without dressing) can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. The dressing can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Pear Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish that beautifully balances sweet, savory, and tangy elements. With its crisp pears, tart cranberries, and creamy cheese, all brought together with a simple dressing, this salad is a perfect addition to any meal. Whether served for a casual lunch or as a festive side dish, it’s sure to become a favorite for any season. Enjoy this easy-to-make salad and impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and textures!