Get ready to experience a culinary masterpiece that will revolutionize your perception of salads forever! This Greens with Pears and Blue Cheese recipe is not just a dish, it's a gourmet journey that combines the crisp freshness of mixed greens, the sweet elegance of ripe pears, and the bold, tangy punch of blue cheese. Imagine a salad so delightful that it turns an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience, with each bite promising a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 ripe pear, sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by washing the mixed greens thoroughly and spinning or patting them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once fragrant and lightly golden, remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Wash the pear and slice it thinly, cutting away the core. For best presentation, slice the pear just before serving to prevent browning.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette dressing.
- Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl or on individual plates.
- Arrange the pear slices artfully over the greens.
- Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly across the salad.
- Scatter the toasted walnuts over the top of the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp greens, fresh pears, and the contrast of creamy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select crisp, vibrant mixed greens and a perfectly ripe pear for the best flavor and texture.
- Toasting Technique: When toasting walnuts, watch them carefully and stir frequently to prevent burning. They should be golden and fragrant, not dark or bitter.
- Timing is Key: Slice the pear just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its fresh appearance.
- Vinaigrette Tip: Whisk the dressing thoroughly to ensure a smooth, well-combined emulsion that coats the salad evenly.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed right after assembly to maintain the crispness of the greens and the temperature of the ingredients.
- Cheese Selection: Use a high-quality blue cheese for the most robust and creamy flavor profile.Pro tip: For an extra gourmet touch, try using a variety of blue cheese like Roquefort or Gorgonzola to elevate the dish's complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
