Radicchio, Pear & Walnut Salad
This vibrant Radicchio, Pear & Walnut Salad offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, combining the crisp bitterness of radicchio with sweet pear, crunchy walnuts, and pungent gorgonzola, all brought together by a bright vinaigrette.
For 4 servings
Prepare the radicchio and pear: Wash and core the radicchio, then thinly slice it. Wash, core, and thinly slice the pear. If desired, soak the radicchio in ice water for 15 minutes to reduce bitterness, then pat very dry.
Toast the walnuts: If your walnuts are not pre-toasted, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let cool completely before adding to the salad.
Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well emulsified.
Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced radicchio, sliced pear, toasted walnuts, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese.
Dress and serve: Just before serving, pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Toasting walnuts brings out their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch. Don't skip this step!
- 2Always dress salads just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting and becoming soggy.
- 3For perfectly thin and even pear slices, consider using a mandoline slicer (with caution and a guard).
- 4Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the vinaigrette to your preference; add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, crispy prosciutto, or a handful of chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
Substitute gorgonzola with crumbled goat cheese, feta, or shaved Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Fruit & Nut AdditionsFruit & Nut Additions
Incorporate dried cranberries, candied pecans, or segments of orange for additional sweetness and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Radicchio contains powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins, which can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Digestive Health
The fiber content in radicchio, pears, and walnuts supports healthy digestion and can contribute to a feeling of fullness.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health and brain function.
Frequently asked questions
Soaking sliced radicchio in ice water for 15-30 minutes can help mellow its natural bitterness. Make sure to pat it very dry before adding to the salad.
