Pear Blue Cheese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. The pears bring natural sweetness, while the blue cheese adds a sharp, tangy richness. The nuts offer a satisfying crunch, and the greens keep it light and refreshing. It’s quick to assemble, visually stunning, and impressive enough for holidays, dinner parties, or a gourmet touch to everyday meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
crumbled blue cheese
mixed salad greens (like arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
candied pecans or walnuts
red onion (thinly sliced)
balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing
lemon juice (to prevent pear browning)
freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Directions

1. Wash and dry the salad greens and place them in a large serving bowl or platter.
2. Slice the pears thinly, removing the cores. Drizzle slices with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
3. Arrange the pear slices over the greens, followed by a sprinkle of thinly sliced red onions.
4. Crumble the blue cheese evenly over the salad.
5. Add candied pecans or walnuts for crunch and sweetness.
6. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or your preferred dressing.
7. Finish with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently or serve as arranged.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a main salad.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, steak, or prosciutto for a more filling salad.
• Use goat cheese: Swap blue cheese for creamy goat cheese for a milder flavor.
• Fruit swap: Use apples, figs, or dried cranberries in place of or alongside pears.
• Nut alternatives: Try almonds or pistachios for a different crunch.
• Dressing twist: Replace vinaigrette with a maple Dijon or raspberry dressing for a seasonal touch.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the pears and greens wilt quickly once dressed. To make ahead, prep all ingredients separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving. Avoid storing leftovers once dressed, as the greens will become soggy.

FAQs

What type of pear is best for this salad?

Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc pears work well. Choose ripe but firm pears so they slice easily and hold their shape.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, goat cheese, feta, or gorgonzola are good alternatives if you prefer a milder or different flavor.

What dressing goes best with this salad?

A balsamic vinaigrette pairs beautifully, but honey mustard or a light citrus vinaigrette also complement the flavors well.

Are candied nuts necessary?

Not at all. Plain roasted nuts work too, but candied nuts add a touch of sweetness and crunch that balances the blue cheese.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep all components separate and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

How do I keep the pears from browning?

Toss sliced pears with lemon juice immediately after cutting to prevent oxidation and browning.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your dressing and nuts are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels if serving someone with dietary restrictions.

What greens should I use?

Arugula, spinach, mixed spring greens, or a baby kale blend all work well. Use what you enjoy or have on hand.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes. Use a vegan cheese alternative and ensure your dressing is plant-based.

What meals does this pair well with?

It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, pasta, grilled entrees, or as part of a holiday spread.

Conclusion

Pear Blue Cheese Salad is a stunning and delicious way to elevate any meal with minimal effort. With its fresh ingredients and bold contrast of flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for both casual lunches and elegant dinners. Quick to make and easy to customize, this salad proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Pear Blue Cheese Salad

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Pear Blue Cheese Salad is a light and elegant salad combining juicy pears, tangy blue cheese, crunchy nuts, and fresh greens, finished with a flavorful vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (side) or 2 (main)
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), thinly sliced
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup candied pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent pear browning)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and dry salad greens. Place in a large serving bowl or platter.
2. Thinly slice the pears, discarding cores. Drizzle slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Arrange pears over the greens, then scatter red onion slices on top.
4. Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and candied nuts.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or dressing of choice just before serving.
6. Finish with freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently or serve arranged.

Notes

• Use ripe but firm pears for best texture.
• Assemble salad just before serving to prevent wilting.
• Adjust sweetness or tang by choosing different dressings.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 side salad
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg