Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a fresh, elegant dish that combines juicy pears, crisp greens, crunchy nuts, and tangy cheese—all tied together with a sweet and tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect mix of flavors and textures, and I love how effortlessly it comes together for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this salad because it’s simple, seasonal, and incredibly versatile. The natural sweetness of ripe pears pairs beautifully with the sharpness of balsamic and the creaminess of cheese. It’s light enough for a side dish, but when I add a little protein, it can easily stand on its own as a full meal. It also looks beautiful on the table, which makes it perfect for entertaining.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
salad:
- ripe pears, sliced
- mixed salad greens (like arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese
- candied or toasted pecans or walnuts
- red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
balsamic vinaigrette:
- balsamic vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- honey or maple syrup
- olive oil
- salt
- black pepper
directions
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I start by whisking together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
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While whisking, I slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the vinaigrette emulsifies and thickens slightly.
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In a large bowl, I add the greens and toss them lightly with a bit of the vinaigrette.
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I arrange the sliced pears over the greens, then sprinkle with cheese, nuts, and any optional toppings I like.
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Just before serving, I drizzle more vinaigrette over the top or serve it on the side so everyone can add their own.
Servings and timing
This salad serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a main.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes add grilled chicken or salmon to turn it into a heartier meal.
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For a dairy-free version, I skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
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Apples work just as well as pears if I want a variation or if pears aren’t in season.
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I switch out the nuts for almonds or pumpkin seeds when I want something different.
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A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the vinaigrette gives it a warm, spiced flavor in the fall.
storage/reheating
I store leftover salad components separately when I can. Dressed salad doesn’t keep well for long—it gets soggy. The vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed jar. I just give it a good shake before using again. If I’ve already dressed the salad, I try to eat it within the same day.
FAQs
What kind of pears work best for this salad?
I like using Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc pears because they’re sweet and juicy without being overly soft. I make sure they’re ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, I prep the ingredients and store them separately, then assemble just before serving. I slice the pears last and add a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
What cheese goes well with pears?
Goat cheese and blue cheese are my favorites because they contrast nicely with the sweetness of the pears. Feta or shaved Parmesan also work great.
Is the balsamic vinaigrette sweet?
It has a subtle sweetness from the honey or maple syrup, which balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. I adjust the sweetness to my taste.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Sure, if I’m in a hurry, I use a good-quality bottled balsamic vinaigrette, but I prefer homemade for a fresher, more balanced flavor.
Conclusion
This Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a go-to recipe when I want something light, flavorful, and seasonal. It’s beautiful on the plate and easy to adapt to whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m making a quick lunch or a salad to impress guests, this one always hits the mark with its mix of sweet, savory, and crisp elements.
Print
Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (side) or 2 (main)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and elegant dish made with fresh pears, crisp greens, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and a sweet-tangy balsamic dressing. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures—simple enough for a weeknight meal, yet beautiful enough for entertaining. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this salad is a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- Ripe pears, sliced
- Mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- Crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese
- Candied or toasted pecans or walnuts
- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
For the balsamic vinaigrette:
- Balsamic vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Honey or maple syrup
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until emulsified and slightly thickened.
- In a large bowl, toss the greens lightly with a small amount of vinaigrette.
- Arrange sliced pears on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle with cheese, nuts, and any optional toppings like onions or cranberries.
- Drizzle with additional vinaigrette before serving, or serve the dressing on the side.
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