Prepare to revolutionize your salad game with a mouthwatering creation that's about to become your new obsession! This isn't just another boring green dish – it's a symphony of flavors that will transform your perception of salads forever. Imagine creamy goat cheese melting against sweet pears, crunchy candied pecans adding a decadent twist, all drizzled with a maple balsamic dressing that will make your palate sing. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet lunch, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Mixed greens
- Goat cheese, crumbled
- Pears, sliced
- Candied pecans
- Maple syrup
- Balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, sliced pears, candied pecans, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Wash the mixed greens thoroughly under cold water. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat them dry with paper towels. Place the greens in a large salad bowl.
- Next, prepare the pears. If using fresh pears, wash them and slice them into thin wedges or rounds. If desired, you can peel them, but leaving the skin on adds color and texture.
- Add the sliced pears to the bowl with the mixed greens.
- Now, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- In a small skillet over medium heat, add the candied pecans. Toast them for about 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and slightly crispy. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once the pecans are toasted, remove them from the heat and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle the prepared maple balsamic dressing over the mixed greens and pears. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that the greens and pears are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the salad, followed by the toasted candied pecans. Toss lightly to distribute the cheese and pecans throughout the salad.
- Serve immediately on individual plates or in the large salad bowl. Enjoy your fresh salad with goat cheese, pears, candied pecans, and maple balsamic dressing!
Tips
- Choose ripe but firm pears for the best texture and flavor
- Toast pecans slowly to enhance their natural nutty flavor without burning
- Prepare dressing separately and taste before adding to ensure perfect balance
- Use fresh, high-quality goat cheese for maximum creaminess
- Wash greens thoroughly and dry completely to prevent a watery salad
- Serve immediately after tossing to maintain the crispness of the ingredients
- For extra elegance, try using a mix of green varieties like arugula and baby spinach
- Can be easily made vegetarian and pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
