Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a mouthwatering combination that will make your taste buds dance? This Pear Cranberry Walnut Salad is not just a dish—it's a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and crunchy elements in one stunning creation. Imagine a vibrant mix of crisp greens, juicy pears, tart cranberries, and rich blue cheese, all brought together with a luxurious balsamic vinaigrette that will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 pears, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water and pat dry using a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Core the pears and slice them thinly into uniform half-moon shapes, ensuring they are approximately 1/4 inch thick for consistent texture.
- In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens as a base layer, creating an even and appealing foundation for the salad.
- Arrange the sliced pears strategically across the top of the mixed greens, distributing them evenly for visual appeal and balanced flavor.
- Sprinkle the dried cranberries over the pears, allowing them to add bursts of tartness and color to the salad.
- Scatter the chopped walnuts across the salad, ensuring they are distributed evenly to provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Crumble the blue cheese over the top of the salad, creating small pockets of tangy and creamy elements throughout the dish.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the entire salad, using a light hand to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated without becoming soggy.
- Gently toss the salad using two large spoons or salad tongs, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and dressed.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the greens and the fresh flavor of the ingredients.
Tips
- Choose ripe but firm pears for the best texture and flavor. Bosc or Anjou pears work exceptionally well in this recipe.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad to enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of crunch.
- For the most vibrant salad, prepare all ingredients just before serving to maintain maximum freshness and prevent wilting.
- If you're preparing this in advance, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Experiment with different types of mixed greens like arugula or baby spinach to add variety and unique flavor profiles.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or seared salmon to transform this salad into a complete meal.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinaigrette or make your own for an even more personalized touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
