Unleash the flavors of fall with this pear arugula salad that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the peppery punch of arugula. Perfect for a light lunch or as a sophisticated side, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet pears and peppery arugula creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Adding toasted walnuts introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- A simple honey mustard dressing enhances the salad without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 5 cups arugula, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salad.
Toast the Walnuts
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool before roughly chopping.
Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, sliced pears, and toasted walnuts. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Add the Goat Cheese
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top of the salad. The creaminess of the goat cheese pairs beautifully with the crisp pears and peppery arugula.
Serve Immediately
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve immediately after assembling to ensure the arugula stays crisp and the pears don’t brown.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta or blue cheese make excellent substitutes. To prevent the pears from browning, you can toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. For a heartier version, add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a main course. Always taste your dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the pears for apples or figs for a different sweet element.
- Use spinach or mixed greens instead of arugula for a milder flavor.
- Add dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Include avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Try pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting and the pears from browning. Keep the dressing separate and toss everything together at the last minute.
What type of pears work best for this salad?
Bartlett or Anjou pears are ideal for this salad because they’re sweet and hold their shape well when sliced. Make sure they’re ripe but still firm to the touch for the best texture.
Is there a vegan alternative to goat cheese?
Yes, you can use vegan cheese crumbles or simply omit the cheese altogether. The salad will still be delicious with the sweet pears, peppery arugula, and crunchy walnuts.
Summary
This pear arugula salad is a delightful mix of sweet, peppery, and crunchy textures, dressed in a simple honey mustard vinaigrette. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and sure to impress whether served as a side or main dish.
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