Indulge in the perfect balance of flavors with this roasted walnut and blue cheese salad, drizzled with a homemade honey pear vinaigrette. The creamy blue cheese and crunchy roasted walnuts pair beautifully with the sweetness of the pears, while the vinaigrette adds a delightful tang. This salad is an elegant dish that can be served as a light lunch or an impressive starter for dinner. The combination of textures and flavors will make this salad a favorite, especially for blue cheese lovers.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your favorite mix) ๐ฟ
- 1/2 cup roasted walnuts ๐ฐ
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese ๐ง
- 1 pear, thinly sliced ๐
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries ๐
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion ๐ง
For the Honey Pear Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup pear juice or pear puree ๐
- 2 tablespoons honey ๐ฏ
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard ๐ฑ
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar ๐
- 1/3 cup olive oil ๐ซ
- Salt and pepper to taste ๐ง
Directions:
1๏ธโฃ Prepare the Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together pear juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. ๐ฏ๐
2๏ธโฃ Roast the Walnuts:
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until they are golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad. ๐ฐ๐ฅ
3๏ธโฃ Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, crumbled blue cheese, sliced pear, dried cranberries, and red onion. Top with the roasted walnuts. ๐ฟ๐ง๐
4๏ธโฃ Dress the Salad:
Just before serving, drizzle the honey pear vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Be careful not to overdressโstart with a small amount and add more as needed. ๐ฏ๐ฅ
5๏ธโฃ Serve:
Divide the salad into individual plates or serve it family-style. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a refreshing side dish for any meal. Enjoy!
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Roasting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories per Serving:
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
Tips:
- Substitute nuts: If walnuts arenโt your favorite, feel free to swap them out for pecans or almonds.
- Pear alternatives: Apples or figs can be a great substitute for pears, especially if you prefer a different fruit flavor.
- Cheese options: If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, goat cheese or feta would work well as milder options.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad.
Benefits:
- Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and brain function.
- Blue cheese provides a rich source of calcium and vitamin K, supporting bone health.
- Pears are full of fiber and vitamin C, making this salad not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
- The vinaigrette is homemade and free from preservatives, offering a fresher and healthier alternative to store-bought dressings.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but donโt dress the salad until just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
2. Can I store leftover vinaigrette?
Absolutely. Store any leftover vinaigrette in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using again.
3. What if I donโt have pear juice for the vinaigrette?
You can easily make pear juice by pureeing a ripe pear and straining it, or you can substitute with apple juice for a similar flavor.
4. Can I use candied walnuts instead of roasted?
Yes, candied walnuts add a touch of sweetness and an extra crunch to the salad, making it even more indulgent.
Conclusion:
This roasted walnut and blue cheese salad with honey pear vinaigrette is an elevated, yet simple dish that brings together rich and fresh ingredients for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for any season, but especially during fall when pears are at their peak, this salad is versatile, nutritious, and full of contrasting textures. Whether youโre making it for a special occasion or just a regular lunch, itโs bound to impress. Try it for your next meal, and enjoy the harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!
