Pear Gorgonzola Salad with Walnuts

This Pear Gorgonzola Salad is a refreshing combination of sweet, juicy pears and tangy Gorgonzola cheese. Paired with crisp greens and crunchy toasted walnuts, it is tied together with a vibrant honey-balsamic vinaigrette that brings all the flavors together in every bite.

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Ideal as a sophisticated starter or a light meal, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The addition of dried cranberries provides a chewy sweetness that complements the creamy cheese and crisp pear slices.

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

To ensure the best results, use a sharp knife and cutting board to slice the pears thinly. A small whisk is essential for properly emulsifying the honey and mustard into the vinaigrette, ensuring a consistent flavor throughout the salad.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute Gorgonzola with Roquefort or any blue cheese you prefer. For a different crunch, try using pecan nuts or hazelnuts instead of walnuts. To create a vegan version, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and choose a plant-based blue cheese alternative. For added protein, grilled chicken makes an excellent addition.

Serviervorschläge

This salad is best served immediately to keep the greens crisp. It makes a wonderful refreshing vegetarian appetizer for a dinner party or a light lunch. Serve it in chilled bowls to maintain the freshness of the ingredients during a warm day.

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Enjoy this vibrant and colorful Pear Gorgonzola Salad as a healthy addition to your recipe repertoire. Its blend of textures and bold flavors is sure to impress your guests or brighten up your midday meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Prepare all components in advance but toss with dressing just before serving to keep greens crisp and pears from browning. Store ingredients separately in airtight containers.

→ What type of pears work best?

Firm but ripe pears like Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett hold their shape well when sliced. Avoid overly soft varieties that can become mushy.

→ How do I prevent pears from turning brown?

Toss sliced pears with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting, or prepare them right before assembling and serving the salad.

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Pecans, hazelnuts, or toasted almonds make excellent substitutes. Choose nuts that complement the creamy Gorgonzola and sweet pears.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative to Gorgonzola?

Use vegan blue cheese alternatives or substitute with toasted nuts and extra dried fruit for a creamy texture without dairy.

→ What protein can I add to make it more filling?

Grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or poached pears work beautifully. For vegetarians, add quinoa or toasted pumpkin seeds.