Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Name: Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe pears; 5 ounces arugula; 4 to 5 ounces goat cheese; 1 cup dried cranberries; ½ cup toasted pecans; Balsamic vinaigrette (made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt & pepper)

Published: April 23, 2025

by Jessica

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Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is an elegant and flavorful autumn dish, perfect as a side salad or light meal. The combination of sweet pears, tangy cranberries, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted pecans makes for a stunning presentation and a delightful mix of textures and flavors. This versatile salad suits various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Tools and Preparation
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
For the Pear Salad
How to Make Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Step 1: Prepare the Onions (Optional)
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Step 4: Add Dressing & Serve
How to Serve Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
As a Side Dish
For Special Occasions
How to Perfect Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Best Side Dishes for Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Freezing Instructions
Reheating Instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?
Can I use different greens in my pear salad?
How do I make homemade balsamic vinaigrette?
What fruits pair well with pear salad?
How should I serve my pear salad?
Final Thoughts
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Why You’ll Love This Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This salad is not only delicious but also offers numerous benefits.

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick steps, this salad comes together in just 15 minutes.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet, tangy, and savory elements creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Versatile Base: Use it as a side dish or a light meal. It pairs well with many main courses.
Seasonal Ingredients: Perfect for autumn, featuring fresh pears that are in season.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mason jar
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Large shallow serving bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mason jar: Ideal for mixing dressings and ensuring an even blend of ingredients.
Sharp knife: Provides clean cuts for slicing fruits and vegetables, enhancing presentation.
Large shallow serving bowl: Allows for beautiful layering of ingredients without crowding.

Ingredients

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, grated or minced
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Pear Salad

½ small red onion, thinly sliced
5 ounces arugula
3 pears (any variety), thinly sliced
4 to 5 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
1 cup dried cranberries
½ cup pecans, toasted and cooled

How to Make Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Step 1: Prepare the Onions (Optional)

Soak the sliced onions in a small bowl of ice water for 10 minutes to reduce their harsh flavor. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a mason jar, combine all of the vinaigrette ingredients. Shake until well combined and emulsified.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large shallow serving bowl:
1. Arrange the arugula as the base.
2. Layer the sliced pears and onions on top.
3. Sprinkle goat cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans over everything.

Step 4: Add Dressing & Serve

Shake the vinaigrette again if it has separated. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving. For a prettier presentation, serve without tossing; let the dressing work its way down naturally to the greens.

How to Serve Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Serving Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette can elevate any meal. Its vibrant colors and delightful flavors make it a standout choice for various occasions.

As a Side Dish

With Grilled Chicken: The salad pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, adding a refreshing contrast.
Alongside Fish: Serve this salad with seared salmon or white fish for a light and healthy meal.
At a Picnic: Pack it in a jar for an easy-to-eat option that’s both portable and delicious.

For Special Occasions

Holiday Gatherings: This salad adds elegance to holiday dinners, providing a bright touch to your table.
Brunch Buffets: Set out in a large bowl for guests to help themselves to this light yet satisfying option.
Dinner Parties: Impress your guests by serving it as an appetizer or alongside the main course.

How to Perfect Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

To ensure your Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Dressing: Use fresh balsamic vinegar for a more robust flavor that enhances the salad’s sweetness.
Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe pears and crisp arugula for the best texture and taste.
Toast Nuts Carefully: Toast pecans just until golden to bring out their rich flavor without burning them.
Layer Thoughtfully: Arrange ingredients in layers rather than tossing them. This keeps the presentation appealing.
Chill Ingredients: Serve the salad cold for a refreshing bite, especially on warm days.
Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition and heartiness.

Best Side Dishes for Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with your Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts add depth and earthiness that complements the salad nicely.
Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf provides protein and fiber, making your meal more filling.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks offer a delightful contrast in texture while soaking up any leftover vinaigrette.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring umami richness that balances well with the sweet salad.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy herbed rice is light yet satisfying, making it a great accompaniment to this dish.
Vegetable Crudité Platter: Fresh vegetables add variety and crunch, perfect for dipping in leftover dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Boldly skip soaking onions – Not soaking the onions can result in a harsh flavor. Soak them in ice water for 10 minutes to mellow their taste.
Boldly overlook dressing balance – Using too much vinegar can overpower the salad. Ensure you balance the vinaigrette ingredients for a harmonious flavor.
Boldly ignore ingredient quality – Low-quality fruits or nuts can ruin your salad’s taste. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Boldly toss too early – Tossing the salad before serving can lead to a soggy presentation. Drizzle the vinaigrette just before serving for a fresher look.
Boldly forget about customization – Sticking to only pears limits your options. Feel free to experiment with other fruits and nuts for variety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.
Keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is not recommended for this salad as it contains fresh ingredients that may not thaw well.

Reheating Instructions

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm gently for about 10 minutes, keeping the salad covered.
Microwave – Heat on low power in short bursts of 15-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop – Warm on low heat in a pan, stirring gently until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette?

Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a refreshing dish combining sweet pears, tangy cranberries, peppery arugula, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts dressed in a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette.

Can I use different greens in my pear salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute arugula with mixed greens, baby spinach, or even kale to customize your salad’s flavor and texture.

How do I make homemade balsamic vinaigrette?

To create homemade balsamic vinaigrette, mix extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

What fruits pair well with pear salad?

Besides pears, you can add apples, pomegranate arils, blackberries, figs, or citrus segments for added flavor and variety.

How should I serve my pear salad?

For an elegant touch, serve the Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette without tossing it. This keeps the presentation beautiful while allowing the dressing to enhance each bite.

Final Thoughts

This Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is not only beautiful but also versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or nuts to suit your taste!

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