Get ready to elevate your salad game with this stunning Mixed Greens Fennel Red Pear Salad that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers. Imagine a vibrant plate bursting with crisp greens, sweet pear slices, aromatic fennel, and crunchy toasted walnuts - a symphony of flavors and textures that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about salads. This recipe isn't just a side dish; it's a culinary masterpiece that brings restaurant-quality elegance right to your home kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup fennel, thinly sliced
- 1 red pear, sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Next, take the fennel bulb and trim off the fronds and the base. Cut the fennel in half lengthwise, then thinly slice each half to create delicate fennel strips.
- Wash the red pear under cold water. Cut it in half, remove the core, and slice it into thin wedges. You can leave the skin on for added color and texture.
- In a small skillet over medium heat, add the walnuts. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced fennel, and red pear slices. Gently toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to bruise the greens.
- Finally, sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the top of the salad for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavors of the salad.
Tips
- Choose the freshest ingredients possible - the quality of your produce will make or break this salad.
- When toasting walnuts, watch them carefully and stir frequently to prevent burning.
- For the most vibrant flavor, use a high-quality balsamic vinegar.
- Slice fennel and pears thinly for the best texture and presentation.
- Serve the salad immediately after dressing to maintain the crispness of the greens.
- If preparing in advance, keep dressing and ingredients separate and combine just before serving.
- Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for variety.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
