Description
Winter Salad with Pears and Pecans is a delightful dish that encapsulates the season’s flavors. This vibrant salad features a mix of crisp greens, sweet ripe pears, and crunchy toasted pecans, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Enhanced by creamy feta cheese and drizzled with a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad not only looks stunning but also provides a refreshing contrast to hearty winter meals. Perfect as a side for festive gatherings or as a light main course, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- Mixed greens (arugula, spinach)
- Ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou)
- Pecans (raw or lightly toasted)
- Feta cheese (crumbled)
- Balsamic vinaigrette (homemade)
Instructions
- Wash mixed greens thoroughly and dry using a salad spinner.
- Core the pears and slice them into thin wedges; toss in lemon juice to prevent browning if desired.
- Toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately on plates or in bowls.
Notes
- Choose ripe pears for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Prepare components ahead of time but dress just before serving for optimal freshness.
- Feel free to substitute feta cheese with goat or blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg