Pear Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Pecans

This Pear Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Pecans brings together sweet, savory, and crunchy elements for a beautifully balanced dish that fits any season. Juicy ripe pears, creamy gorgonzola, crisp greens, and caramelized pecans create layers of flavor and texture that feel both refined and comforting. A simple homemade vinaigrette ties everything together, making this salad ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or adding elegance to a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced flavors: Sweet pears and candied pecans complement creamy gorgonzola
• Quick to assemble: Ready in minutes with minimal prep
• Perfect for entertaining: Elegant presentation for gatherings or holidays
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite greens, nuts, or cheese
• Seasonally versatile: Works beautifully for fall, winter, spring, or summer meals

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 6 cups mixed salad greens or spring mix
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup candied pecans
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pears: Wash the pears thoroughly, remove the cores, and slice them thinly. Make sure they remain firm enough to hold their shape.
2. Assemble the Greens: Add mixed salad greens to a large bowl or platter. Spread them evenly to create a base.
3. Add Red Onion: Sprinkle thinly sliced red onion over the greens for sharp flavor and color contrast.
4. Add the Pear Slices: Arrange the pear slices across the top of the greens. Space them evenly to keep the presentation clean.
5. Add Gorgonzola: Crumble gorgonzola over the salad. Distribute it so each bite gets a hint of creaminess.
6. Add Candied Pecans: Scatter the candied pecans across the salad. Their sweet crunch brings the entire dish together.
7. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until smooth and emulsified.
8. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing lightly over the salad just before serving. Adjust the amount depending on preference.
9. Toss or Serve as Is: Serve immediately, either lightly tossed or arranged as a composed salad.

Tips & Variations

• Swap the cheese: If gorgonzola feels strong, try goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese crumbles.
• Use other fruits: Substitute pears with apples, figs, or fresh berries.
• Try different greens: Arugula adds peppery notes; spinach brings softness; kale adds structure.
• Make it heartier: Add grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or quinoa.
• Candied pecan alternatives: Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios work well.
• Add herbs: Fresh mint or basil adds brightness to the flavor profile.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Salad Storage: Store the salad undressed in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Once dressed, it softens quickly and is best eaten immediately.
• Dressing Storage: The vinaigrette keeps well in a sealed jar for up to 5 days. Shake before using.
• Pears: To prevent browning, brush pear slices with a little lemon juice if preparing ahead of time.
• Freezer: This salad should not be frozen. Fresh ingredients maintain better texture when refrigerated only.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve as a starter for holiday meals or elegant dinner parties
• Pair with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak for a complete entrée
• Serve alongside soups such as butternut squash or creamy cauliflower
• Add crusty bread or crostini for a balanced lunch
• Enjoy with sparkling water, or fresh lemonade

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

es, prepare the components separately. Store greens, pears, nuts, and cheese in individual containers, and add the dressing right before serving to maintain texture and freshness.

What type of pears work best?

Bosc, Anjou, and Bartlett pears all work well. Choose pears that are ripe yet firm so they slice cleanly and hold their shape in the salad.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, replace candied pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Toast them lightly for added flavor.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Add protein such as grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or salmon. You can also mix in cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier texture.

Ready to Make It?

This Pear Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Pecans brings freshness, sweetness, and creamy richness to your table. It looks beautiful, tastes bright and balanced, and adds elegance to any occasion. Prepare it for a gathering, a cozy family dinner, or a special meal where you want something light yet elevated. Save this recipe and enjoy a salad that feels as good as it looks.

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