Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette, a refreshing dish perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy dinners at home. This delightful salad combines juicy pears, peppery arugula, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted pecans, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking just 15 minutes—but its stunning presentation makes it an impressive addition to any meal. Whether served as a side dish or topped with grilled chicken for a hearty entrée, this pear salad is sure to please your palate while providing essential nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ripe pears (any variety)
- 5 oz arugula
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup toasted pecans
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Optional: Soak the sliced onions in ice water for 10 minutes to mellow their flavor. Drain and pat dry.
- In a mason jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake until well mixed.
- In a large shallow salad bowl, layer the arugula as the base. Top with sliced pears and onions.
- Sprinkle goat cheese over the salad followed by dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
- Shake the dressing again before drizzling over the salad just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg