Easy & Delicious Pear Salad Recipes

So, listen up. If you’ve been hunting for the ultimate pear salad that’ll rock your tastebuds and yet somehow feels fancily casual, you’re at the right place. This recipe is like that friend who effortlessly pulls off sweatpants at a fancy dinner. It brings together crisp pears, nuts, and a zingy dressing, all dancing in one happy bowl. Just trust me, you’ll want this in your life.

Alright, picture this: my husband has never really been the salad kind of guy. But let me tell you, this pear salad turned him into a leafy greens convert! I made it on a whim one fall evening when fridge pickings were slim, and now it’s a staple that the kids demand at least once a week. They like to call it the “salad with the sweet crunchies,” which, let’s be honest, sounds even better.

How to Make It

Okay, so here’s what you do. Grab those lovely ripe pears you’ve got lurking in the fruit bowl. Slice ‘em up—doesn’t need to be perfect, just as long as you get some good juicy chunks. Then, toss them in a big ol’ bowl with a handful of mixed greens, some crunchy nuts, and cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Drizzle on a simple vinaigrette that you whip up from olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and, well, anything else you think might work. Give it a toss, and voila! You’re going to feel like a pro, even if you did trip over the cat mid-mix.

✔Ingredient Notes

– Pears: The riper, the better. But hey, almost overripe can work if you’re desperate—just avoid too-too soft or it’ll be mushy!
– Mixed Greens: I go with what’s in the fridge. Seriously, whatever’s green and won’t bite back.
– Nuts: Let’s be real; it’s the crunch we’re after. Toast them for extra oomph, if you’re not in a rush.

✔Recipe Steps:
1. Slice pears into chunks.
2. Mix pears with greens, nuts, and cheese in a bowl.
3. Prepare vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over salad and toss gently.

What to Serve It With

✔Tips & Mistakes

– Forget to buy nuts? Substitute with seeds or a lonely granola bar you’ve got laying around—it works!
– Overdo it on the dressing? A paper towel can rescue soggy leaves. It’s like magic, but less delicious.

✔Storage Tips

So, if you’ve ended up with leftovers (which I highly doubt, but hey), chuck them in an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. Cold pears and nuts in salad are surprisingly delightful for a next-day snack… or breakfast. I won’t judge.

✔Variations and Substitutions

Got no lemons? Try apple cider vinegar. I’ve done it, and it’s not half bad! No cheese, no worries; just go without and pretend it’s a trendy minimalist thing. Or throw in some berries if you’ve found a handful in the fridge door.

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy & Delicious Pear Salad Recipes

This fresh and easy pear salad combines crisp greens, juicy pears, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette for a delightful, healthy dish perfect for any season.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 3 medium ripe pears
• ▢ 6 cups mixed salad greens
• ▢ 0.75 cup walnuts, chopped toasted for extra flavor
• ▢ 0.5 cup crumbled blue cheese
• ▢ 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
• ▢ 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ▢ 1 tablespoon honey adjust to taste
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ▢ 0.25 teaspoon salt or to taste
• ▢ 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Wash and dry the salad greens thoroughly and place them in a large salad bowl.
• Core and slice the pears into thin wedges; add to the salad bowl.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
• Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese over the top just before serving.

Notes

For a vegan option, omit the blue cheese and substitute with toasted sunflower seeds or vegan cheese.