Arugula, Pear & Goat Cheese Salad
A classic restaurant-quality salad that's incredibly easy to make at home, featuring the perfect balance of sweet pear, tangy goat cheese, peppery arugula, and crunchy walnuts.
For 2 servings
Prepare Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well emulsified. Set aside.
Toast Walnuts (if not pre-toasted): If your walnuts are not pre-toasted, spread them in a single layer on a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Let cool, then roughly chop.
Prepare Pear: Wash and core the pear, then slice it thinly. If preparing ahead, you can toss the slices with a tiny squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Dress Arugula: In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh arugula. Drizzle about half to two-thirds of the prepared vinaigrette over the arugula. Gently toss with tongs or clean hands until the leaves are lightly coated. Add more dressing if desired, but avoid over-dressing.
Assemble Salads: Divide the dressed arugula evenly between two serving plates.
Top and Serve: Artfully arrange the thinly sliced pear, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted chopped walnuts over the arugula on each plate. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose a ripe but firm pear for the best texture; it should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett pears work wonderfully.
- 2For the best flavor and texture, toast your walnuts just before assembling the salad. This brings out their natural oils and enhances their crunch.
- 3Dress the arugula just before serving to prevent it from wilting. Start with less dressing and add more to taste, ensuring the leaves are lightly coated, not drenched.
- 4Bring goat cheese to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving; it will be creamier and its flavor more pronounced.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut/Seed Swap
Substitute walnuts with pecans, candied pecans, slivered almonds, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch and flavor profile.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Instead of goat cheese, try crumbled feta, shaved Parmesan, or a mild blue cheese for a different tangy or salty note.
Added ProteinAdded Protein
Turn this into a heartier meal by adding grilled chicken, pan-seared salmon, or chickpeas.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Arugula and pears provide various antioxidants, which help protect your body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Good Source of Fiber
Pears and walnuts are excellent sources of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and contributing to feelings of fullness.
Healthy Fats
Walnuts and olive oil contribute healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the lemon vinaigrette can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Whisk or shake well before using.
