Description
Light, elegant, and bursting with contrasting flavors, this Pear and Blue Cheese Salad—inspired by the Barefoot Contessa—is the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, crunchy, and tangy. With crisp greens, juicy ripe pears, sharp blue cheese, and crunchy nuts all drizzled in a bright, homemade vinaigrette, this salad is ideal as a holiday side, a sophisticated starter, or a light, refreshing lunch.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
6 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, spring mix, or a combo)
2 ripe but firm pears, cored and sliced thin
½ cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort preferred)
½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Vinaigrette:
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
¼ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
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Slowly stream in the olive oil while whisking until the dressing is emulsified.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients
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Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly.
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Thinly slice the pears—leave the skin on for color and texture.
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Crumble the blue cheese and slice red onion if using.
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Roughly chop candied nuts if they’re too large.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
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In a large bowl, toss greens gently with half of the vinaigrette.
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Arrange pear slices, blue cheese, nuts, and red onion over the greens.
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Drizzle with remaining dressing and add cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately as a side salad or add grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
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Optional: Add a final sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of honey for extra contrast.
Notes
Use Firm Pears – Bosc or Anjou pears hold up well and don’t get mushy.
Choose Bold Blue Cheese – Gorgonzola or Roquefort adds great flavor.
Toss Just Before Serving – Prevents soggy greens.
Customize It – Swap nuts for almonds or pistachios, or use goat cheese instead.
Add a Crunch – Toast the nuts lightly for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American