Description
Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and sophisticated dish perfect for autumn gatherings or any occasion. This salad beautifully balances sweet, ripe pears with tangy cranberries and peppery arugula, topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted pecans. Whether served as a light meal or a stunning side dish during holiday feasts, its appealing presentation and delightful textures will surely impress your guests. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, this versatile recipe lets you customize ingredients to suit your taste, making it not only healthy but also a refreshing addition to your dining table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ripe pears
- 5 ounces arugula
- 4 to 5 ounces goat cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- Balsamic vinaigrette dressing (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper)
Instructions
- If desired, soak sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor; drain and pat dry.
- In a mason jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake well to emulsify.
- In a large serving bowl, layer arugula as the base followed by sliced pears and onions.
- Top with crumbled goat cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad just before serving without tossing for an elegant touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg