Pear, Walnut & Goat Cheese Salad
A classic, elegant salad where creamy goat cheese, sweet pear, and crunchy, earthy walnuts come together in a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making for an easy yet sophisticated meal.
For 2 servings
Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper until well emulsified and creamy. Set aside.
Prep Ingredients: Gently wash and thoroughly dry the spring mix. Core the ripe Bosc pear and thinly slice it into crescent shapes. Crumble the fresh goat cheese into small, bite-sized pieces.
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-low heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool completely before adding to the salad.
Assemble the Salad Base: Divide the fresh spring mix evenly between two individual serving plates or arrange it attractively in a large salad bowl.
Arrange Toppings: Artfully arrange the thinly sliced pear, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnut halves over the bed of greens on each plate, distributing them evenly.
Dress and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette generously over the salads. Toss gently if using a single bowl, or serve as is on individual plates. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the greens and pear.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Pear Selection: Choose a pear that is firm but yields slightly to gentle pressure at the stem end for optimal sweetness and texture. Avoid overly soft or bruised pears.
- 2Toasting Walnuts: To enhance their flavor and crunch, always toast walnuts. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly; remove from heat as soon as they are fragrant.
- 3Dressing Ahead: The balsamic vinaigrette can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Whisk again vigorously before using, as it may separate.
- 4Don't Overdress: Add dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. Start with a little and add more if needed, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated but not soggy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken breast, pan-seared salmon, or roasted chickpeas for a more substantial and protein-rich meal.
Different FruitDifferent Fruit
Substitute pear with thinly sliced apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), fresh figs, or even red grapes for a different sweet and crisp element.
Nut AlternativesNut Alternatives
Pecans, candied pecans, or slivered almonds can be used instead of walnuts to vary the nutty flavor and crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Pears and mixed greens are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Healthy Fats
Walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for heart and brain health.
Calcium & Protein
Goat cheese provides a good source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, along with quality protein for muscle repair and growth.
Frequently asked questions
You can prep all ingredients (wash greens, slice pear, toast nuts, make dressing) and store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble and dress just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
