Pear Gorgonzola Salad

This Pear Gorgonzola Salad is a refreshing combination of sweet, juicy pears and tangy Gorgonzola cheese. Paired with crisp greens and toasted walnuts, it makes for a sophisticated starter or a light, satisfying meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes.

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The honey-balsamic vinaigrette ties all the flavors together, highlighting the creaminess of the cheese and the crunch of the toasted walnuts. It is an elegant dish that is both healthy and visually stunning.

Ingredients

• 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 2 ripe pears, cored and thinly sliced
• 100 g (3.5 oz) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Step 2

In a large salad bowl, toss the mixed greens lightly with half of the dressing.

Step 3

Arrange the pear slices, Gorgonzola crumbles, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries over the greens.

Step 4

Drizzle with the remaining dressing just before serving.

Step 5

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, use a sharp knife and cutting board to thinly slice the pears. Using a large salad bowl allows you to toss the greens gently with the whisked dressing without bruising the leaves.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute Gorgonzola with Roquefort or blue cheese if preferred. For a vegan version, use a plant-based blue cheese and maple syrup instead of honey. Pecan nuts or hazelnuts can be used instead of walnuts for a different crunch.

Serviervorschläge

This recipe yields 4 servings and is best served immediately. For a boost of protein, you can add grilled chicken to the salad, turning it into a hearty main course.

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With approximately 270 calories and 7 g of protein per serving, this Pear Gorgonzola Salad is a delightful way to enjoy a light and nutritious meal. It contains dairy and tree nuts, so be mindful of guests with allergies.

Recipe FAQs

→ What pairs well with pears and Gorgonzola?

Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts complement the combination perfectly. The honey-balsamic vinaigrette enhances both the fruit's sweetness and the cheese's tanginess.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Prepare the dressing and toast the nuts in advance. Assemble just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the greens and prevent the pears from oxidizing.

→ What cheese substitutes work best?

Roquefort, blue cheese, or Stilton offer similar tangy profiles. For a dairy-free version, try cashew-based alternatives with apple cider vinegar.

→ Which pear varieties are ideal?

Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears work wonderfully. Choose fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure but still feels firm for the best texture.

→ How do I prevent pears from browning?

Toss sliced pears with a tablespoon of lemon juice immediately after cutting. This natural preservative maintains their fresh appearance without altering the flavor profile.