Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Elevate your dining experience with this vibrant Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette. Perfect for autumn, this dish combines the sweetness of ripe pears, tangy cranberries, and peppery arugula, all topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted pecans. The balsamic vinaigrette ties it all together, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a casual meal, this salad is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and visually stunning, it's a nutritious choice that can be easily customized with seasonal fruits or nuts. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this elegant side dish today!

Prep Time15 mins

Course: Sides Cuisine: N/A Keyword: Use ripe pears for maximum sweetness. Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for variety. Chill all ingredients beforehand for a refreshing taste. Servings: Serves 4 Calories: 280kcal Author: Tisha

Ingredients

3 ripe pears
5 ounces arugula
1 cup dried cranberries
4 to 5 ounces goat cheese
½ cup toasted pecans
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, grated or minced
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

If desired, soak thinly sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes to mellow their flavor; then drain.
In a mason jar, combine vinaigrette ingredients (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper). Shake until well emulsified.
In a large serving bowl, layer arugula as the base. Add sliced pears and drained onions on top.
Sprinkle with goat cheese, cranberries, and toasted pecans.
Just before serving, drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad for optimal freshness.

Nutrition