Pear & Gorgonzola Salad Recipe
This Pear & Gorgonzola Salad recipe brings together fresh, balanced ingredients for a quick and impressive dish. The harmonious blend of creamy cheese, sweet pears, and crunchy elements topped with a bright dressing provides satisfying flavor and elegance with minimal effort. Ideal to serve any time you want a salad that feels both special and approachable.
Equipment
- Large Bowl For combining and tossing the salad ingredients
- Dry skillet To toast walnuts
- whisk To emulsify the dressing
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou, cored and thinly sliced
- 4 cups peppery greens arugula or baby spinach
- 4 ounces Gorgonzola cheese crumbled, use Dolce for milder flavor or Piccante for stronger sharpness
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts lightly toasted in dry skillet
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar for vinaigrette dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil for vinaigrette dressing
- 1 tablespoon honey for vinaigrette dressing
- 1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice to toss with sliced pears
- 1/4 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries optional, for a tart pop of color and flavor
Instructions
- Core and thinly slice the pears, then immediately toss them with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and add brightness.
- Gently toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove promptly to avoid burning.
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the greens, lemon-dressed pears, crumbled Gorgonzola, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries if using.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly without bruising the leaves.
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately to enjoy crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Easy and efficient preparation with minimal chopping and no cooking required.
- The perfect balance of creamy, sharp cheese with sweet pears and tangy dressing.
- Maintain textural contrast with juicy pears, crunchy nuts, and tender greens.
- Versatile for casual or formal meals, quick assembly in one bowl reduces cleanup.
- Store dressing separately to keep salad fresh if preparing ahead.
- Substitute Gorgonzola with blue cheese, Roquefort, or creamy feta if preferred.
- For a vegan option, replace cheese with nut- or tofu-based alternatives and honey with maple syrup.
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