Name: Pear Salad with Balsamic and Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed salad greens; 2 ripe pears, sliced; 1 fennel bulb, sliced paper thin; Lemon wedge, for squeezing; 2 tablespoons dried cranberries; 1 tablespoon chopped pecans; 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts; 1 tablespoon chopped hazelnuts, or more pecans or walnuts; ⅓ cup shaved pecorino cheese; Balsamic Vinaigrette, for drizzling; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

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This Pear Salad with Balsamic and Walnuts is a symphony of flavors and textures that comes together in just 15 minutes. Juicy, ripe pears offer a sweet contrast to the tangy balsamic glaze, while crunchy walnuts add a satisfying bite. Each forkful is a delightful balance of creamy, crisp, and nutty elements, making it a refreshing yet hearty dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is as effortless as it is elegant.

With its vibrant colors and layered flavors, this salad is a feast for the senses. The peppery arugula, the sweetness of the pears, and the rich, earthy walnuts create a harmony that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this recipe proves that gourmet doesn’t have to be time-consuming. It’s a simple way to elevate your meal with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients

4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
2 ripe pears, sliced (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
1 fennel bulb, sliced paper thin (use a mandoline for even slices)
1 lemon wedge, for squeezing (to prevent browning of pears)
2 tablespoons dried cranberries
1 tablespoon chopped pecans (or substitute with more walnuts)
1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon chopped hazelnuts (optional; use pecans or walnuts if preferred)
⅓ cup shaved pecorino cheese (Parmesan can be a substitute)
Balsamic Vinaigrette, for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Simple Steps to Assemble

Arrange the greens: Place the mixed salad greens on a serving platter or in a large bowl.
Add the pears and fennel: Layer the sliced pears and fennel over the greens.
Squeeze lemon juice: Lightly squeeze the lemon wedge over the pears and fennel to add freshness and prevent browning. Toss gently.
Top with toppings: Sprinkle the dried cranberries, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, and shaved pecorino cheese evenly over the salad.
Drizzle and season: Generously drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Finish with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately: Enjoy this vibrant salad right away for the best flavor and texture!

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

This pear salad shines as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or roasted salmon for a heartier meal. It also complements creamy soups like butternut squash or a warm crusty bread for a cozy dinner. Pro tip: Serve it alongside a glass of crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Mix It Up: Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste! Swap pears for crisp apples or add a handful of arugula for a peppery kick. If you’re not a fan of fennel, try thinly sliced celery or radishes for crunch. For a vegan version, skip the pecorino and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or toasted pumpkin seeds.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

To save time, prep your ingredients ahead of time. Slice the pears and fennel, and store them in an airtight container with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning. You can also make the balsamic vinaigrette in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Quick assembly tip: Use pre-washed mixed greens to cut down on prep even more!

Storage and Freshness Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the greens, pears, and fennel separately from the dressing and toppings. Keep everything in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 day. Note: The nuts may lose their crunch if stored with the salad, so add them just before serving.

Equipment Guidance for Effortless Prep

A sharp chef’s knife and a mandoline slicer are your best friends for this recipe. The mandoline ensures paper-thin fennel slices, while a sharp knife makes quick work of the pears. A large serving platter or bowl is ideal for tossing and presenting the salad beautifully. Bonus tip: Use a microplane for shaving the pecorino cheese effortlessly.