Pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese

If you’re looking for a salad that sings with flavors and textures, you’ve come to the right place! This pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese is a delightful blend of sweet and savory ingredients. It’s one of my favorite go-to recipes for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. The crispness of the greens, the sweetness of ripe pears, and the creaminess of goat cheese come together in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your table!

This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create something truly special that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Fresh and vibrant flavors: The combination of sweet pears and tart cranberries gives this salad a refreshing twist.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with vitamins and healthy fats from walnuts and goat cheese, it’s a guilt-free treat!
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this salad fits any occasion.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time for an effortless assembly later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! They’re easy to find and will help you create a salad bursting with flavor.

For the Salad

• 2 handfuls mixed salad greens (I used lamb’s lettuce)
• 1 large ripe pear
• 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup (35g) walnuts
• 2 oz (60g) semi-firm goat cheese, cut into 4 slices

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

This pear walnut salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Change the nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
• Mix up the cheese: Try feta or blue cheese instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add seasonal fruits: In summer, peaches or strawberries would be fantastic additions!

How to Make Pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese

Step 1: Wash the Greens

Start by washing your mixed salad greens thoroughly. Spin them dry in a salad spinner. This step ensures your greens are fresh and crisp without any excess water that can dilute the dressing. Once dried, place them on a large plate to form a beautiful base for your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Pear

Next, peel your ripe pear—though leaving the skin on adds color and texture if you prefer. Cut it into quarters, remove the core, and slice each quarter thinly. Arrange these lovely slices over your greens. The sweetness of the pears will balance beautifully with the tangy dressing.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

In a dry pan over medium heat, toast your walnuts until they’re browned and fragrant. This important step enhances their flavor significantly. Be sure to keep an eye on them; they can burn quickly! Remove them from heat as soon as they smell delicious.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Cranberries

Now it’s time to add some creaminess! Cut your goat cheese into small cubes or leave it in slices if you prefer. Scatter these cubes over your pear slices along with the dried cranberries and toasted walnuts. Each bite will be packed with delightful flavors!

Step 5: Make Your Dressing

For the dressing, combine olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small jar. Close it tightly and shake until well combined. You can also use a food processor if you like! Adjust seasoning by adding more lemon juice or honey based on your taste preferences.

Step 6: Assemble Your Salad

Drizzle that luscious dressing over your assembled salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all those wonderful ingredients without bruising your greens.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

And there you have it—a beautiful pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese that’s ready to impress! Serve it up right away while everything is fresh. Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pear Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese

Creating the perfect pear walnut salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Choose ripe pears: Ripe pears add natural sweetness and juiciness to your salad, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Look for pears that yield slightly when pressed.
• Toast walnuts for extra crunch: Toasting walnuts not only brings out their rich nutty flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Just a few minutes in a dry pan will do the trick!
• Experiment with cheese: While goat cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other soft cheeses like feta or blue cheese. Each will provide a unique taste and texture that can make the salad your own.
• Make the dressing ahead of time: Preparing your lemon Dijon vinaigrette ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Store it in the fridge for up to a week!
• Customize your greens: Use any combination of salad greens that you love or have on hand. Spinach, arugula, or even mixed baby greens can create an exciting base for this fresh salad.

How to Serve Pear Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese

Presenting your pear walnut salad beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ways to serve this vibrant dish that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh mint or basil leaves on top will add a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Microgreens: Adding microgreens not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes additional nutrients and flavor.
• Citrus zest: A hint of lemon or orange zest sprinkled over the top can brighten up the flavors and give a refreshing kick.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf complements the salad’s freshness while adding heartiness—perfect for a satisfying meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tangy cranberries and creamy goat cheese, creating a comforting contrast.
• Grilled chicken: For those looking to add protein, grilled chicken fillets seasoned simply with salt and pepper provide a delicious addition without overpowering the salad.
• Vegetable soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup serves as a cozy side that balances out the coolness of the salad—perfect for any season!

Enjoy crafting this delightful pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the ingredients in advance for a quick and healthy meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• To keep the lettuce fresh, consider storing the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as fresh greens do not thaw well.
• However, you can freeze the walnuts if you want to use them later. Toasted walnuts can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold; therefore, there’s no need to reheat it.
• If you prefer warm components, you can lightly toast the walnuts or serve it alongside warm dishes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying this delicious salad.

Can I prepare pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese a day ahead?

Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, ensuring your greens stay crisp.

What variations can I try with pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese?

Feel free to customize this salad! You could add other fruits like apples or berries, substitute different nuts, or even include a sprinkle of seeds for added crunch.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for goat cheese?

Yes! You can replace goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or avocado for a creamy texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese brings together sweet and savory flavors that make mealtime truly enjoyable. It’s not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. I hope you have as much fun preparing this delightful dish as I do. Give it a try, and enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!