Pin it The first time I served this salad at a dinner party, my friend actually stopped mid conversation to ask what was in it. Theres something about the way sweet pears meet sharp Gorgonzola that makes people pause. I had thrown it together because I was running late and needed something impressive but effortless. Now its my go to when I want people to think I tried harder than I actually did.
Last autumn, my neighbor brought over a basket of pears from her tree and I started experimenting. This combination was the winner that kept appearing at every gathering until the pears ran out. Even my cheese hating niece picked around the Gorgonzola but ate everything else with enthusiasm.
Ingredients
- Mixed salad greens: I love using arugula for its peppery bite but spring mix works beautifully for something milder
- Ripe pears: Choose pears that give slightly when pressed but arent mushy, they hold their shape better in the salad
- Gorgonzola cheese: The creamy tang balances the pears sweetness perfectly, but Roquefort works if you want something sharper
- Toasted walnuts: Toast them yourself for five minutes, the difference in flavor is worth the extra step
- Honey balsamic dressing: The honey helps emulsify everything while taming the vinegars acidity
Instructions
- Whisk the dressing:
- Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl until the mixture thickens slightly and looks glossy
- Dress the greens:
- Place your greens in a large bowl and toss gently with half the dressing so every leaf gets coated without becoming weighed down
- Arrange the toppings:
- Layer the pear slices, crumbled Gorgonzola, and toasted walnuts over the greens so each bite gets a bit of everything
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle the remaining dressing right before serving and toss once at the table for maximum effect
Pin it My mother in law now requests this every time she visits. Watching her face light up at that first bite of creamy cheese against crisp pear has become one of my favorite kitchen moments.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in pecans or hazelnuts depending on whats in my pantry. Each nut brings its own personality, though walnuts remain my favorite for their earthy depth that grounds the sweeter elements.
What To Serve Alongside
This salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or a crusty baguette and white wine. On nights when I want something lighter, it stands alone perfectly as a main course with maybe some crusty bread on the side.
Getting Ahead
You can toast the walnuts and whisk the dressing hours ahead, but keep them separate until the last minute. This little bit of prep work makes actual assembly feel almost magical.
- Dont slice the pears more than an hour before serving or theyll oxidize and turn brown
- Toast extra nuts while youre at it, they keep beautifully in an airtight container
- The dressing actually tastes better after sitting for thirty minutes, giving flavors time to mingle
Pin it Theres something deeply satisfying about a salad that feels this special yet comes together this easily. Hope it finds its way into your regular rotation too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pears work best?
Ripe but firm pears like Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett hold their shape well when sliced. Avoid overripe pears that may become mushy. The fruit should yield slightly to gentle pressure while maintaining structure.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Prepare components separately in advance. Wash and dry greens, slice pears, crumble cheese, and toast walnuts up to 4 hours ahead. Store each ingredient in airtight containers. Toss together and dress just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → What can substitute Gorgonzola?
Roquefort, Stilton, or any blue cheese works beautifully. For milder flavor, try feta or goat cheese. Vegan blue cheese alternatives made from cashews or coconut oil provide plant-based options without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How do I prevent pears from browning?
Toss sliced pears with a tablespoon of lemon juice immediately after cutting. The acidity slows oxidation. Alternatively, slice just before assembling and serve promptly. This quick preparation naturally minimizes browning time.
- → Can I use other nuts?
Toasted pecans add buttery richness, hazelnuts provide earthy depth, and sliced almonds contribute delicate crunch. For nut-free versions, try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. Always toast nuts briefly to enhance their natural flavor.