Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your salad game! This Endive Pear Blue Cheese Salad is not just a dish, it's a symphony of flavors that combines the crisp bitterness of endive, the sweet juiciness of ripe pears, the bold punch of blue cheese, and the nutty crunch of toasted walnuts. Perfect for sophisticated dinner parties or a luxurious lunch, this French-inspired recipe promises to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary gastronomic adventure that will leave your guests absolutely impressed.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 heads endive, chopped
- 1 ripe pear, sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the endive thoroughly under cool running water, pat dry with paper towels, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Carefully slice the ripe pear into thin, uniform wedges. For best presentation, cut the pear just before serving to prevent browning.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a simple vinaigrette.
- Gently toss the chopped endive with the prepared vinaigrette, ensuring even coating of the leaves.
- Arrange the dressed endive on serving plates, then strategically place pear slices on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts over the salad.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp endive, sweet pears, and creamy blue cheese at their peak freshness.
Tips
- Choose the right ingredients: Select endive heads that are crisp and bright green, with no wilting. Pick a ripe but firm pear that will hold its shape when sliced.
- Timing is crucial: Toast the walnuts just before assembling the salad to preserve their maximum flavor and crunch. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
- Prevent pear browning: Slice the pear at the last moment and consider tossing the slices in a little lemon juice to maintain their fresh appearance.
- Vinaigrette secrets: Whisk the dressing thoroughly to ensure a perfect emulsion, which helps the dressing coat the endive leaves evenly.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best enjoyed right after assembly to maintain the crisp textures and vibrant flavors of each ingredient.
- Temperature matters: Serve the salad slightly chilled or at room temperature to enhance the contrast between the cool, crisp endive and the creamy blue cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
