Arugula Salad with Pears & Brie
This elegant Arugula Salad with Pears & Brie combines peppery arugula, sweet, crisp pears, and creamy brie cheese, all lightly dressed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and sophisticated dish.
For 2 servings
Prepare the ingredients: Gently wash and dry the arugula. Thinly slice the pear, removing the core. Remove the rind from the brie cheese and cut it into small cubes.
Make the balsamic vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, gently combine the fresh arugula, thinly sliced pear, and cubed brie cheese.
Dress the salad: Just before serving, pour the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients.
Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are lightly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose a firm but ripe pear for the best texture and sweetness. Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett pears work wonderfully in this salad.
- 2Allow the brie cheese to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving; this enhances its creamy texture and flavor.
- 3Always dress the salad just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting and to maintain its crisp texture.
- 4For an extra pop of color and flavor, consider adding a few thinly sliced red onion rings or dried cranberries.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add 1/4 cup of toasted walnuts, pecans, or slivered almonds for an additional layer of texture and nutty flavor.
Sweet & Savory BoostSweet & Savory Boost
Incorporate 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, dried figs (chopped), or pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and chewiness.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
Substitute the brie with crumbled goat cheese for a tangier profile, or blue cheese for a bolder, more pungent flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Arugula is an excellent source of Vitamin K, essential for bone health, and Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function.
Good Source of Fiber
Pears contribute dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting satiety, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare the vinaigrette up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Whisk well before using, as the ingredients may separate.
