Can I make Pear and Blue Cheese Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and vinaigrette ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the pears fresh.

What type of pears work best in this salad?

Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett pears are great choices. Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to ensure a pleasant texture in the salad.

What can I use instead of blue cheese?

Goat cheese or feta are good alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor or don't like blue cheese. They still add creaminess and tang.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly. To make it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

How long does Pear and Blue Cheese Salad last in the fridge?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, undressed salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the dressing and pears just before serving.

Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Description

A fresh and elegant summer salad featuring ripe pears, crumbled blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and a honey-lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for light lunches, entertaining, or as a flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or mesclun mix)
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
1/2 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until the dressing is emulsified. Set aside.
On a large platter or in a salad bowl, arrange the mixed greens. Top with sliced pears, crumbled blue cheese, toasted nuts, and dried cranberries (if using).
Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the salad just before serving. Gently toss to coat all ingredients. Garnish with extra blue cheese or pear slices if desired.

Notes

Use goat cheese instead of blue cheese for a milder flavor.
Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Use maple syrup instead of honey to make it vegan-friendly.
Best served immediately after tossing to maintain freshness and texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 270 kcal
Sugar: 13 g
Sodium: 300 mg
Fat: 19 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg