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Pear Salad with Balsamic and Walnuts

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Pear Salad with Balsamic and Walnuts is a crisp, elegant salad made with ripe pears, greens, toasted walnuts, and crumbled cheese, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette—perfect for holidays, lunch, or light dinners.

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (Bartlett or Anjou recommended)
  • 5–6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese
  • ½ cup walnuts, toasted
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
  3. In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced pears, red onion, and most of the toasted walnuts.
  4. Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  5. Top with crumbled cheese and the remaining walnuts just before serving.

Notes

  • Toss pears with a little lemon juice after slicing to prevent browning.
  • Substitute blue cheese with goat cheese, feta, or shaved Parmesan.
  • Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness.
  • For a heartier version, include grilled chicken or chickpeas.
  • Use candied walnuts for a sweet and crunchy upgrade.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/pear-salad-with-balsamic-and-walnuts/