Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad for its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the pears complements the sharp, creamy blue cheese, while the tangy vinaigrette ties everything together with a refreshing, zesty finish. The salad is easy to prepare, yet feels indulgent, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. It’s a great way to highlight the flavors of fall and winter produce, and it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a hearty soup.

Ingredients

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

• 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese

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

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

For the vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons white wine 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. Toast the nuts: If using walnuts or pecans, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Gradually add the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, crumbled blue cheese, toasted nuts (if using), and red onion (if using).

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

5. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: To make this salad more substantial, top it with grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

• Use different nuts: Swap the walnuts or pecans for almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds for a different flavor and texture.

• Make it vegan: Skip the blue cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative, or try adding avocado for creaminess.

• Add other fruits: Apples, figs, or pomegranate seeds would make a great addition to this salad for extra sweetness and color.

• Try a different cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, goat cheese or feta would work well as alternatives, offering a similar creamy texture with different flavors.

Storage/Reheating

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

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

• Keep the vinaigrette in a separate container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad ingredients (except the avocado and dressing) ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent wilting or browning.

How do I keep the pears from browning?

To prevent the pears from browning, toss them with a small amount of lemon juice before adding them to the salad.

Can I use a different type of blue cheese?

Yes! You can use other blue cheeses such as Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Stilton for slightly different flavor profiles.

How do I make this salad spicier?

For some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette or sprinkle a little cayenne pepper over the salad before serving.

How can I make the vinaigrette creamier?

To make the vinaigrette creamier, whisk in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a richer texture.

Can I make this salad without nuts?

Absolutely! You can skip the nuts or replace them with seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for a bit of crunch.

Can I use a different type of vinegar for the vinaigrette?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Is this salad gluten-free?

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

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers (without dressing) can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. The dressing should be stored separately and can last up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a delightful combination of fresh greens, juicy pears, creamy blue cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that brings together sweet, savory, and tangy elements in a way that’s sure to impress. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a side or a light main course, this salad is quick to prepare, and with a few variations, it can be customized to suit your preferences.