Description
This refreshing Autumn Salad with Pears combines crisp mixed greens, sweet ripe pears, tangy gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy pecans, all brought together with a simple homemade red wine vinaigrette. Perfectly balanced with a hint of honey and Dijon mustard, this salad makes a light, elegant dish ideal for a quick lunch or a starter during the fall season.
Ingredients
Units
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Dressing
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Salad
- 2 small ripe pears, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup (2 oz) gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 8 oz mixed baby greens (baby spinach, arugula, radicchio, etc.)
- 1 oz pecans (about 20 halves)
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk to create a smooth, emulsified vinaigrette.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed baby greens, diced pears, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, and pecan halves. Gently toss them together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Toss with Vinaigrette and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and crisp textures at their best.
Notes
- Peeling the pears helps to soften their texture and remove any bitterness in the skin, but you can leave the skin on for more fiber if preferred.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding to the salad.
- This salad is best served fresh; the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to substitute gorgonzola with blue cheese or feta for a different cheese profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
