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 perfect for a light lunch or dinner side!
I love how quick and easy it is to whip this up! Just toss everything together, and you have a delicious salad. Plus, it looks fancy enough to impress anyone at your table! 🥗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: This is the base of your salad, adding a peppery flavor. If you can’t find arugula, baby spinach or mixed greens work well, but they will change the taste slightly. I love arugula for its unique bite!
Pear: A ripe pear adds sweetness and juiciness. If pears aren’t in season, try using apples or even sliced peaches for a different twist. I usually go for Bosc or Anjou for their firm texture.
Cheese: Goat cheese gives a creamy texture and tangy flavor, but feta also works beautifully here. If you prefer dairy-free, try a vegan cheese alternative or leave it out entirely for a lighter option.
Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and flavor. If you want a nut-free option, you can use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead. These make it still hearty!
How Do I Make a Simple Dressing for My Salad?
Creating a delicious dressing can elevate your salad. This simple vinaigrette is quick and brings all the flavors together. Here’s how to do it:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
- Add 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Adjust sweetness or acidity to suit your preference!
Don’t be shy with the whisk, as this helps emulsify the oil and vinegar, giving you a well-blended dressing for your salad!
Pear and Arugula Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh arugula leaves
- 1 ripe pear, cored and sliced into wedges
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons 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 salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and assemble. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a light meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. This dressing is sweet and tangy, bringing all the flavors together in the salad.
2. Prepare the Base:
In a large salad bowl, place the fresh arugula leaves. This peppery green forms the perfect base for your salad and gives it a lovely crunch.
3. Add the Pears:
Next, arrange the pear wedges on top of the arugula. The sweet slices will contrast beautifully with the peppery arugula, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
4. Sprinkle the Cheese and Nuts:
Now sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese (or feta) and the toasted nuts over the salad. This adds creaminess and crunch, making every bite enjoyable!
5. Drizzle the Dressing:
Take your homemade dressing and drizzle it evenly over the salad. Just enough to coat everything without drowning it!
6. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until the arugula and pears are nicely coated with the dressing. Be careful not to bruise the pears.
7. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve the salad immediately and enjoy this fresh, flavorful combination of ingredients! It’s a simple dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Other Greens Instead of Arugula?
Absolutely! While arugula adds a peppery kick, you can substitute it with baby spinach, mixed greens, or even kale. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
It’s best to store leftover salad in an airtight container without the dressing to prevent the greens from wilting. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just dress it before enjoying it again!
What Type of Pear Works Best?
Bosc or Anjou pears are great choices because of their firm texture, which holds up well in salads. Avoid overly ripe pears as they may become mushy in the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the pears and toast the nuts, then store everything separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
