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Zesty Pear Walnut Salad Recipe

Zesty Pear Walnut Salad Recipe for a Bright, Crunchy Delight

A refreshing Zesty Pear Walnut Salad combining crisp greens, juicy pears, and crunchy walnuts in a tangy dressing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 cups arugula or mixed greens substitute with spinach or romaine if desired
  • 2 medium pears preferably Bartlett or Bosc
  • 1 cup walnuts toasted for best flavor
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese can substitute with feta or goat cheese or omit
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for added sweetness and color
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil use high-quality for best taste
  • 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey can substitute with maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or use a milder yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed for brightness
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, layer arugula or mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, and blue cheese.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to combine.
  5. Optionally, garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping the dressing separate to maintain crispness. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.

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