Pear Salad Recipe
User Reviews
5
Pear Salad Recipe
Description
The salad is composed of mixed greens and thinly sliced Bartlett or Anjou pears, combined with candied pecans for a sweet crunch. A balsamic vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic provides a tangy and sticky coating that complements the ingredients without overpowering them. Parmesan cheese shaved on top adds a nutty flavor and texture contrast, while dried cranberries offer slight chewiness and tartness. Feta or goat cheese finishes the salad with a creamy and tangy note.
The vinegar-based dressing binds the components, enhancing the natural sweetness of the pears and balancing the richness of cheeses and nuts. This salad is best served immediately after tossing to maintain the crispness of the greens and the fresh texture of the pears. It functions well as a starter or as a light accompaniment to other dishes, suitable for meals that benefit from fresh and varied textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- salt freshly ground
- black pepper freshly ground
Salad:
- 1/2 cup pecans roughly chopped, candied
- 8 oz salad greens blend
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese shaved NOT grated
- 2 pear sliced thinly - Bartlett or Anjou pears work great
- 1/2 cup feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing:
- Add all the Balsamic Vinaigrette ingredients to a food processor and blend for about 20 seconds until combined. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper.
- Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container until ready to use.
Salad:
- Layer spinach and pears in a large bowl, add 3/4 of the dressing, and toss to combine.
- Top with parmesan, dried cranberries, and candied pecans.
- Serve garnished with feta cheese or goat cheese. Drizzle with the remaining dressing.
- Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 445 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 445kcal | 22% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Fat | 32g | 49% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 25mg | 8% |
| Sodium | 482mg | 20% |
| Potassium | 135mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 27g | 54% |
| Vitamin A | 199IU | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 4mg | 4% |
| Calcium | 258mg | 26% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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