This refreshing pear and arugula salad is a tasty mix of sweet and peppery flavors. With juicy pears, crunchy nuts, and a simple dressing, it’s easy to whip up!
I love how the sweetness of the pears pairs so well with the spicy arugula. It’s like a little party in your mouth! Perfect as a side or a light lunch. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arugula: Fresh arugula adds a nice peppery bite to the salad. If you can’t find it, you can replace it with spinach or mixed greens, though they won’t have the same spicy flavor.
Pears: Juicy, ripe pears are key for sweetness. I love using Bosc or Anjou pears, but you can also try Bartlett or whatever’s fresh in your area.
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts enhance the crunch and flavor. For a nut-free version, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds make a great substitute.
Cheese: Goat cheese gives a creamy and tangy element. If you’re not a fan, feta or even blue cheese will work nicely. For a vegan option, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Toast Walnuts Perfectly?
Toasting walnuts maximizes their flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a dry skillet over medium heat. No oil needed!
- Add the chopped walnuts and stir them constantly to avoid burning.
- Toast for 3-5 minutes, until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully!
- Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to your salad.
Toasting enhances the nuttiness, which adds a lovely touch to your salad. Enjoy your pear and arugula creation!
Pear and Arugula Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula (about 4 ounces)
- 2 ripe pears, cored and sliced into wedges
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend those minutes toasting the walnuts, whisking together the dressing, and assembling the ingredients. It’s super quick and perfect for a refreshing meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Walnuts:
Start by placing a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast them for about 3-5 minutes. Make sure to stir them frequently to prevent any burning. Once they are fragrant and lightly browned, take them off the heat and set them aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully!
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the fresh arugula as your base. Then, arrange the pear wedges evenly on top of the arugula. Next, sprinkle the toasted walnuts and crumbled goat cheese (or feta) over the salad.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad. Just before serving, toss everything gently to mix the ingredients. You can also serve the dressing on the side if you prefer!
5. Final Touches:
Season your salad with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve it immediately for the best freshness and flavor!
This crisp and refreshing pear and arugula salad balances peppery greens with sweet pears, crunchy toasted walnuts, and creamy cheese, all brought together by a simple balsamic-honey vinaigrette. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Salad?
Absolutely! While walnuts pair beautifully with the flavors in this salad, you can use pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds as a nut-free option. Just toast them lightly for the best flavor!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make the salad vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add extra nuts or seeds for added creaminess and protein!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Store the toasted walnuts, the dressing, and the sliced pears separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the arugula crisp!
What Should I Serve With This Salad?
This pear and arugula salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty grain dish like quinoa or farro. It also makes a perfect light lunch on its own!