Pear and Blue Cheese Salad:A healthy ;Easy Recipe in 10 min

This Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a starter, or a side dish. The creamy blue cheese, juicy pears, and crunchy candied pecans offer a wonderful combination of textures and tastes. This salad is easy to assemble and adaptable to your preferences. It’s sophisticated yet simple, always a crowd-pleaser. For another delicious salad option, check out our Chicken Caesar Salad recipe.

Why this Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Is Special

The magic of this salad lies in the contrast between the sweet pears and the sharp blue cheese. The candied pecans add a satisfying crunch and a touch of caramel-like sweetness, making it even better. The balance of flavors and textures is what truly sets this salad apart. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious dish that excites the palate.

In addition to its flavor profile, this salad is visually appealing. The vibrant greens, creamy blue cheese, and golden candied pecans create a beautiful presentation. It’s not just a salad; it’s a centerpiece for your table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad elevates the dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 ripe but firm pears (Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett), cored and thinly sliced
• 4 ounces blue cheese crumbles (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or your favorite)
• 1/2 cup candied pecans, roughly chopped
• 5 ounces mixed greens (or baby spinach, arugula, or your preferred greens)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Prepare the greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens or your chosen greens. A salad spinner is helpful for removing excess water, ensuring your salad remains crisp and fresh. For a refreshing twist, try our Green Juice Recipe.
2. Slice the red onion: Thinly slice the red onion. Soaking the sliced red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes can mellow its flavor if desired. Be sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad.
3. Prepare the pears: Core and thinly slice the pears. To prevent browning, toss the pear slices with a little lemon juice. This helps maintain their fresh appearance and keeps them looking appetizing.
4. Chop the pecans: Roughly chop the candied pecans. If you’re making your own candied pecans, you can prepare them in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them.

Assembling the Salad

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the mixed greens with the sliced red onion. You can also assemble the salad on individual plates for a more elegant presentation.
2. Add pears and blue cheese: Arrange the pear slices over the greens, followed by the blue cheese crumbles. Distributing the ingredients evenly ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
3. Top with pecans: Sprinkle the chopped candied pecans over the salad for that delightful crunch. If you enjoy fruit and cheese pairings, our article on Cottage Cheese and Fruit offers some delicious inspiration.
4. Serve immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad immediately after assembling. If you’re making the salad ahead, wait to add the pears and pecans until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy. You can also add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp and vibrant.

Tips and Variations

Choosing the Right Pears and Blue Cheese

For this salad, choose pears that are ripe but still firm. Anjou, Bosc, and Bartlett pears all work well. Avoid pears that are overly soft or bruised. Ripe pears will yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they are ready to eat. For guidance on selecting ripe fruits, check out this helpful resource from Healthline: How to Tell if Fruit is Ripe.

Blue cheese can vary in intensity. Gorgonzola is a milder option, while Roquefort is more pungent. Choose a blue cheese that suits your taste. If you’re unsure, start with a milder variety and adjust to your liking in the future. The cheese should complement the sweetness of the pears without overpowering them.

Customizing your Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

This Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is delicious as is, but feel free to customize it with other ingredients. Walnuts or toasted almonds can be substituted for the candied pecans, offering a different flavor profile. Dried cranberries or chopped dates add a chewy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. Looking for a satisfying snack? Try our Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe.

For a heartier salad, consider adding crumbled bacon or grilled chicken or shrimp. These additions can transform the salad into a main course, making it suitable for a more substantial meal. For more healthy salad recipes, explore these 20 Healthy Salad Recipes from Healthline.

If you prefer a different dressing, a poppy seed dressing or a raspberry vinaigrette also complements the pears and blue cheese beautifully. You can even add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch that enhances the overall experience.

Making Candied Pecans

Making candied pecans at home is easy and rewarding! In a skillet over medium heat, combine 1 cup of pecan halves, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and coats the pecans, forming a glossy glaze. Spread the pecans on parchment paper to cool and harden. Once cooled, roughly chop and store them in an airtight container. These candied pecans can also be used in other salads or as a snack. For another delicious use for pecans, try our Apple Coffee Cake recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dressing goes with pear and blue cheese salad?

Several dressings complement a pear and blue cheese salad. A balsamic vinaigrette, like the one in this recipe, provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweet pears and creamy cheese. Honey mustard or poppy seed dressing are also excellent choices, adding a unique twist to the classic flavor combination. 

What salad goes with pear?

Pears are a versatile fruit that can be added to many salads. They pair well with spinach, walnuts, and arugula. Consider adding them to a salad with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. The sweetness of the pears balances well with savory elements, making them a great addition to various salads.

How do you make poached pear and blue cheese starter?

To poach pears, simmer them gently in a mixture of water, sugar, and spices until tender. Once cooled, slice the poached pears and arrange them on a plate with crumbled blue cheese, candied nuts, and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for an elegant starter. This method enhances the natural sweetness of the pears and makes for a refined appetizer.

What wine goes with pear and blue cheese salad?

Aromatic white wines like Riesling or Gewürztraminer pair well with the sweetness of the pears and the sharpness of the blue cheese. For a red wine option, choose a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. The right wine can elevate the dining experience, complementing the flavors of the salad. 

Serving and Enjoying your Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

This Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Serve it as a light lunch with a crusty baguette, or as a starter for a more elaborate meal. It also makes a wonderful side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken, adding a refreshing element to your meal.

In our family, this salad is a favorite for special occasions and everyday meals alike. The combination of flavors and textures always delights, and it’s a refreshing change from heavier salads. My wife especially loves the candied pecans; I always make sure to make extra! It’s a simple salad that feels elegant and satisfying.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is not only a delicious addition to any meal but also a celebration of flavors and textures. The sweet pears, bold blue cheese, and crunchy pecans create a dish that is both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!