Description
This Fresh Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a light and refreshing dish combining crisp mixed greens, sweet and juicy pears, toasted walnuts, and creamy feta cheese. The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, making this salad ideal for a healthy lunch or a sophisticated starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups Mixed Greens (a blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 2 medium Fresh Pears (ripe yet firm varieties like Bartlett or Anjou, sliced thinly)
- 1/2 cup Walnuts (toasted for added flavor)
- 1/3 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled for a creamy texture)
Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar (high-quality for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin for a smooth vinaigrette)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Salt and Pepper to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
- Prepare Greens: Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit, then spin dry using a salad spinner or pat dry with clean towels to ensure the leaves are crisp and dry.
- Slice Pears: Slice the pears in half lengthwise, remove the core carefully, and then thinly slice each half into delicate wedges to distribute sweetness evenly throughout the salad.
- Toast Walnuts: Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the walnuts for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma, enhancing their flavor and crunch.
- Make Vinaigrette: In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until the mixture emulsifies into a smooth, well-blended vinaigrette.
- Toss Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, and toasted walnuts to mix the ingredients evenly without bruising the greens.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients lightly and evenly with the dressing.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad as a final garnish and serve immediately to enjoy the freshest textures and flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears to avoid mushy texture in the salad.
- Toast walnuts carefully to avoid burning which can impart bitterness.
- Honey in the vinaigrette is optional; omit for a less sweet dressing.
- Serve immediately after dressing to maintain salad crispness.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for variety.
