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Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 54 reviews

A refreshing and elegant Pear and Blue Cheese Salad featuring mixed greens, ripe pears, crumbled blue cheese, toasted nuts, and a tangy lemon-Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a sophisticated side dish for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or mesclun mix)
  • 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
  • ½ cup toasted walnuts or pecans
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

Vinaigrette

  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Emulsify the dressing: Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly to fully emulsify the vinaigrette. Set aside.
  3. Assemble the greens: Place the mixed greens in a large bowl or serving platter, spreading them out evenly.
  4. Add pears: Layer the thinly sliced ripe pears evenly over the greens.
  5. Top with cheese and nuts: Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts or pecans on top. Add dried cranberries if using.
  6. Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette evenly over the entire salad.
  7. Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad just before serving to combine the flavors. Garnish with extra cheese or pear slices if desired.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture and flavor.
  • Toast nuts lightly in a dry skillet to enhance their flavor before adding to the salad.
  • Optional dried cranberries add a sweet contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
  • The vinaigrette can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Toss the salad gently to avoid bruising the pears and crushing the cheese.

Keywords: Pear and Blue Cheese Salad, mixed greens salad, healthy salad recipe, easy vinaigrette dressing, fall salad, vegetarian salad

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/barefoot-contessa-pear-and-blue-cheese-salad-recipe/