Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that’s not just a side dish but a culinary experience? The Pear Walnut Gorgonzola Salad with Maple Dijon dressing is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Imagine crisp mixed greens paired with juicy, ripe pears, crunchy toasted walnuts, and creamy Gorgonzola cheese, all drizzled with a luscious Maple Dijon dressing. Whether you're looking for a refreshing appetizer or a light main course, this 15-minute recipe is sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. Dive into our easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to create this irresistible salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water and spin them dry in a salad spinner or gently pat them with a clean kitchen towel. Place the greens in a large salad bowl.
- Next, slice the ripe pears. Cut them in half, remove the core, and then slice each half into thin wedges. Add the pear slices to the bowl with the mixed greens.
- Toast the walnuts to enhance their flavor. Preheat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast them for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly before adding them to the salad.
- In a small mixing bowl, prepare the dressing. Combine the olive oil, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the mixture until it is well blended and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once all the salad ingredients are in the bowl, crumble the Gorgonzola cheese over the top. Then, add the toasted walnuts.
- Drizzle the prepared Maple Dijon dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the greens, pears, walnuts, and cheese are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your Pear Walnut Gorgonzola Salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pears: Opt for ripe but firm pears, such as Bosc or Anjou, for the best flavor and texture. They should yield slightly to pressure but not be overly soft.
- Toast the Walnuts Carefully: Keep a close eye on the walnuts while toasting them in the skillet. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of seconds, so stir frequently and remove them from the heat as soon as they are golden brown.
- Make the Dressing Ahead: If you want to save time, prepare the Maple Dijon dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before drizzling it over the salad.
- Serve Fresh: For optimal flavor and crunch, toss the salad with the dressing just before serving. This prevents the greens from wilting and keeps the salad looking vibrant.
- Add a Personal Touch: Feel free to customize this salad by adding other ingredients like dried cranberries, avocado slices, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
