Save A refreshing salad combining sweet, juicy pears with tangy Gorgonzola cheese, crisp greens, toasted walnuts, and a honey-balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a starter or a light meal.
Save This vibrant salad features a beautiful interplay of textures, from the creamy Gorgonzola cheese to the crunchy toasted walnuts, all tied together by a zesty homemade dressing.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 2 ripe pears, cored and thinly sliced
- 100 g (3.5 oz) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 2
- In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens lightly with half of the dressing.
- Step 3
- Arrange the pear slices, Gorgonzola crumbles, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries over the greens.
- Step 4
- Drizzle with the remaining dressing just before serving.
- Step 5
- Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Substitute Gorgonzola with Roquefort or blue cheese if preferred. For extra protein, you can also add grilled chicken to the salad.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Pecan nuts or hazelnuts can be used instead of walnuts for a different flavor profile. For a vegan version, use a plant-based blue cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is perfect as an elegant starter or a light, nutritious meal. Always serve immediately to enjoy the crisp greens and fresh pears at their best.
Save This Pear Gorgonzola Salad is a sophisticated addition to any table, balancing complex, gourmet flavors with incredibly simple preparation.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can wash and prep the ingredients in advance, but assemble just before serving. Store components separately in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing in a sealed container and toss everything together right before eating to maintain optimal freshness and texture.
- → What other greens work well in this combination?
Arugula adds peppery notes that complement the sweet pears beautifully. Baby spinach offers a mild, tender base. Spring mix provides variety in texture and flavor. You can also try mixed field greens or frisée for a more complex taste profile.
- → How do I prevent pears from turning brown?
Toss sliced pears with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting to slow oxidation. Alternatively, slice them just before assembling the dish. If preparing ahead, store pear slices in an airtight container with a splash of citrus juice and pat dry before serving.
- → Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely. Replace Gorgonzola with a plant-based blue cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a lighter version. Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. The combination remains delicious and satisfying without dairy components.
- → What protein additions work well?
Grilled chicken breast sliced thinly adds hearty protein. Crispy pancetta or prosciutto brings savory depth. Hard-boiled eggs make it more filling. For vegetarian options, try candied pecans or add quinoa for extra substance while keeping the focus on the pear and cheese pairing.
- → How long does the dressing stay fresh?
The honey-balsamic vinaigrette keeps well in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The oil may solidify when cold—simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and whisk vigorously before using. Prepare a larger batch to enjoy with other salads throughout the week.