This fresh arugula pear salad is a tasty mix of peppery greens, sweet pears, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts. It’s simple yet impressive for any meal!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of flavors here? I could eat this salad every day! It’s perfect as a light lunch or a fancy side dish at dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This peppery green is the star of the salad. If you can’t find arugula, baby spinach would be a great substitute for a milder taste, or you could try mixed greens for variety.
Pears: Ripe, juicy pears add sweetness. I prefer Bartlett or Anjou varieties. If pears aren’t in season, you can use apples for a crisp texture; just be sure they’re sweet and firm!
Walnuts: Toasting brings out their nutty flavor. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds make a crunchy alternative, while pumpkin seeds add a different twist!
Blue Cheese: While I love the tang of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese can be swapped in for a different yet complementary flavor. For a non-dairy option, try a cashew cheese.
Honey: This is optional for sweetness, but if you’re avoiding sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup works equally well!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Toasted Walnuts?
Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor, making them more aromatic. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat; don’t use oil.
- Add chopped or halved walnuts and toss them around for even toasting.
- Watch closely for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant—burned nuts are not tasty!
- Remove from heat immediately and let them cool before adding to your salad.
How to Make Arugula Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Walnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
- 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped or halved
- ½ cup blue cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. That includes toasting the walnuts and whipping up the dressing. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a light meal or as a refreshing side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Walnuts:
Start by heating a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and stir them around for about 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for them to become fragrant and a lovely golden color. Once done, remove from the heat and let them cool for a bit. This step adds a delightful crunch and deep nutty flavor to your salad.
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or glaze), optional honey, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to blend them together until you have a smooth dressing. Taste it and adjust the salt or vinegar as you like!
3. Assemble the Salad:
Grab a large serving plate or bowl and layer the arugula first. Spread it out evenly to create a bed for the rest of your delicious ingredients.
4. Add the Pears:
Next, take the sliced pears and arrange them nicely on top of the arugula. This adds beautiful color and a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the peppery arugula!
5. Sprinkle on Walnuts and Blue Cheese:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese over the salad. You want to make sure those tasty bits are spread out for every bite!
6. Drizzle with Dressing:
Just before serving, give your salad a lovely drizzle of the dressing. This ensures everything stays fresh and the flavors come together beautifully.
7. Toss and Serve:
If you prefer a more mixed salad, gently toss everything together. If you like the pretty arrangement, serve it as is! Either way, your salad will be fresh, crunchy, and ready to enjoy!
Enjoy this fresh, crunchy, and flavorful salad perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Salad?
Absolutely! While blue cheese gives a tangy flavor, you can substitute it with feta or goat cheese for a milder taste. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cheese or a similar vegan alternative.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, so adjust the sweetness of the dressing if necessary.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the arugula from wilting. Consume the salad within 1-2 days for the best freshness!
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Of course! This salad is versatile. Feel free to add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even some cooked quinoa for extra nutrients. Dried fruits like cranberries or pomegranate seeds also make a great addition!
