This fresh pear and arugula salad is a tasty mix of sweet and peppery flavors. With juicy pears, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing, it’s a lovely addition to any meal!
I love crunching into the nuts while enjoying the sweet pears—it’s like a party in my mouth! Perfect for light lunches or as a side at dinner. You can’t go wrong with this one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This leafy green brings a peppery flavor to the salad. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute spinach or mixed greens for a milder taste.
Pears: I recommend using Bosc or Anjou pears because they have a crisp texture. You can also use apples for a crunchier option, or even peaches when they’re in season for a different sweetness.
Cheese: Goat cheese adds a creamy tang. If you prefer something different, try feta cheese, blue cheese, or even a dairy-free option like crumbled tofu for a lighter touch.
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add a nice crunch. You could swap them for pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free version!
Dried Cranberries: They bring a hint of sweetness. You can replace them with raisins or dried apricots, or skip them altogether if you want fewer sugars.
How to Make the Best Dressing for Your Salad?
The dressing is key to pulling all the flavors together! Here’s how to make it sing:
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
- Adjust to your taste. If you want it sweeter, add more honey, or for tartness, a splash more vinegar works well.
- Make sure to taste it before drizzling to see if it suits your preference.
Once dressed, gently toss your salad to ensure everything is nicely coated but be careful not to bruise the delicate greens.
How to Make Pear and Arugula Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula, washed and dried
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (such as Bosc or Anjou)
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required, just some slicing and mixing, making it a quick and delicious option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and the dressing is smooth. This combo adds a tangy and sweet flavor that ties the salad together!
2. Assemble the Base:
Take a large salad bowl and add the fresh arugula. This will be the perfect base for all the yummy toppings.
3. Add the Goodies:
On top of the arugula, add the thinly sliced pears, crumbled cheese, toasted walnuts, and dried cranberries. Each ingredient brings a unique flavor and texture that complements each other beautifully!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad. Don’t be shy—make sure to cover all the ingredients!
5. Toss it Up:
Gently toss the salad with your hands or a large spoon, being careful to mix everything without tearing the arugula too much. You want every bite to be delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the salad to individual plates or serve it straight from the bowl. It’s best enjoyed immediately while the ingredients are fresh and vibrant. Dig in and savor the delightful combination of flavors!
Enjoy this bright, peppery, and sweet salad as a light lunch or a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Arugula?
Absolutely! While arugula adds a lovely peppery flavor, you can substitute it with spinach, mixed greens, or even kale. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly.
How Can I Keep Leftovers Fresh?
To keep leftovers fresh, store the salad components separately in airtight containers. Keep the dressing in a small jar or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, assemble and dress the salad to maintain the crispness of the arugula and other ingredients.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the pears, toast the walnuts, and prepare the cheese. However, it’s best to wait until just before serving to combine the salad and add the dressing to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
You can get creative with fruits! Sliced apples, figs, or even pomegranate seeds would be wonderful additions. Just consider the balance of sweetness and texture to complement the arugula and dressing.
