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Winter Pear and Pecan Salad with Blue Cheese and Cranberries Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 65 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A refreshing and vibrant Winter Salad combining mixed greens, sweet pears, crunchy pecans, and tart dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy white wine vinaigrette and topped with rich crumbled blue cheese. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal or side dish during the colder months.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 10 ounces Mixed greens
  • 3 Pears, chopped
  • 2 cups Pecan halves
  • 1 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Blue Cheese, crumbled

Vinaigrette

  • 6 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar (Champagne vinegar preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Sugar (optional)


Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves. Gently toss to evenly mix the ingredients.
  2. Prepare Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
  3. Toss Salad with Vinaigrette: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
  4. Add Blue Cheese: Top the dressed salad with crumbled blue cheese, distributing it evenly across the top before serving.

Notes

  • Champagne vinegar is recommended for a delicate flavor but white wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • The sugar in the vinaigrette is optional depending on your taste preference and the natural sweetness of the pears.
  • For added texture, lightly toast the pecans before adding to the salad.
  • This salad is best served fresh to preserve the crispness of the greens and pears.