If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant, and delightfully crunchy salad that combines sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors, the Pear Walnut Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad is a symphony of crisp mixed greens, juicy pear slices, toasted walnuts, and creamy blue cheese, all brought together by a luscious honey-Dijon dressing. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or an elegant starter, this Pear Walnut Salad Recipe brings beautiful colors, textures, and a wonderful balance of flavors to your table in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Assembling this Pear Walnut Salad Recipe is a breeze, thanks to its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the fresh greens provide a crisp base, the ripe pears add juicy sweetness, the toasted walnuts contribute a satisfying crunch, and the cheese brings a creamy tang that ties everything together.

6 cups mixed salad greens: Use arugula, spinach, or any favorite greens for a fresh, peppery foundation.
2 ripe pears: Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal for their firm flesh and natural sweetness, perfect when thinly sliced.
1 cup walnuts: Roughly chopped and toasted to bring out their rich, nutty flavor.
4 oz blue cheese: Crumbled blue cheese adds a creamy, tangy punch; goat cheese or feta work beautifully as alternatives.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: The base for the dressing, it adds smooth richness and depth.
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Provides a bright, fruity acidity to balance the sweetness.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
1 tablespoon honey: Introduces a gentle sweetness that complements the pears.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances all the flavors.
Optional: 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds: For a pop of color and a burst of tartness.

How to Make Pear Walnut Salad Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Walnuts

Start by toasting the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat. This simple step takes only 3 to 5 minutes but transforms the nuts by deepening their flavor and adding a lovely crunch. Keep stirring frequently to avoid burning, and once fragrant and lightly browned, set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey. Season this mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing is the magic glue that marries the sweet, tangy, and savory elements of the salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Greens

Wash and thoroughly dry your mixed salad greens to keep the salad crisp. Place them in a large salad bowl, creating a fresh and vibrant base for your Pear Walnut Salad Recipe.

Step 4: Slice the Pears

Core and thinly slice the ripe pears. To keep the pear slices looking fresh if you’re not serving the salad immediately, toss them lightly in a bit of lemon juice. This prevents browning and keeps your salad looking as beautiful as it tastes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the sliced pears and cooled toasted walnuts to the greens. Then crumble the blue cheese over the top. The combination of textures at this stage starts to build the irresistible character of the salad.

Step 6: Dress and Toss

Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly. This ensures that every bite bursts with flavor and harmony.

Step 7: Optional Garnish

If you want to take your Pear Walnut Salad Recipe to the next level, sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top. They add a jewel-like sparkle as well as a tart burst that contrasts beautifully with the sweeter pears.

How to Serve Pear Walnut Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the optional pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs like mint or basil can add an aromatic freshness that brightens each bite wonderfully. A light drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar can also add a sophisticated note to complement the flavors.

Side Dishes

This salad makes a fantastic accompaniment to grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a hearty soup. Its bright flavors and crunchy textures provide a refreshing contrast that balances richer mains effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special meal, serve the Pear Walnut Salad Recipe in individual clear glasses or mason jars layered with ingredients for a stunning visual effect. You can also use endive leaves as edible scoops to create fun, bite-sized salad appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad components separately to maintain freshness, especially the greens and dressing. Keep toasted walnuts and cheese in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, toss everything together to enjoy the salad as fresh as the day you made it.

Freezing

The Pear Walnut Salad Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because of the delicate texture of the pears and salad greens. Freezing would cause the pears to become mushy and the greens to wilt upon thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make excellent substitutes and offer their own unique flavors and crunch that complement the pears wonderfully.

What is the best cheese to use in this salad?

Blue cheese adds a sharp and creamy contrast that works beautifully, but goat cheese or feta are excellent alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor or want to mix things up.

How do I prevent the pears from browning?

Tossing the thin pear slices in a bit of lemon juice right after cutting helps keep them looking fresh and bright by slowing down oxidation.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can prepare the dressing and toast the walnuts ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the texture and freshness of the greens and pears.

Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?

To make this Pear Walnut Salad Recipe vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Pear Walnut Salad Recipe that makes it a standout in any meal or gathering. Its wonderful balance of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy elements makes every forkful a delight. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors that only this salad can offer. Trust me, it just might become your new favorite!