Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary masterpiece! Our Pear Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing is a symphony of flavors that will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine crisp mixed greens, juicy ripe pears, crunchy toasted walnuts, and a creamy blue cheese dressing that will make your palate dance with delight. This isn't just a salad - it's a gourmet experience that's surprisingly simple to create in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water and spin dry using a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Next, take the ripe pears. Slice them in half, remove the core, and then cut each half into thin slices. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool.
- In a small bowl, prepare the blue cheese dressing. Combine the crumbled blue cheese, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until the ingredients are well blended. You can adjust the seasoning to taste.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced pears. Gently toss them together to mix.
- Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad mixture. Then drizzle the blue cheese dressing over the top.
- Using salad tongs or two large spoons, gently toss the salad to ensure that the dressing evenly coats the greens, pears, and walnuts.
- Once everything is well mixed, serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in a large serving bowl.
- Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Pear Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing as a delightful appetizer or side dish!
Tips
- Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to ensure the best texture and flavor in your salad.
- Toast the walnuts just before serving to maximize their nutty aroma and crunch.
- For the best blue cheese dressing, use room temperature blue cheese which blends more smoothly.
- If you want to prep ahead, slice the pears and toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- For a extra luxurious touch, try using a high-quality, aged blue cheese for more intense flavor.
- Serve immediately after dressing to keep the greens crisp and prevent wilting.
- Feel free to experiment by adding additional ingredients like crispy bacon or sliced red onions for more complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
