Pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese

If you’re looking for a salad that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to my beloved pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese. This vibrant dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with delightful flavors and textures. The sweet, juicy pears paired with tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and rich goat cheese create a delicious harmony that you won’t soon forget.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, it never fails to impress. Plus, the lemon Dijon vinaigrette adds just the right amount of zing, making every bite refreshing. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fruits, nuts, and greens, it’s not only satisfying but also good for you.
• Family-Friendly: Its sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the ingredients in advance and toss them together just before serving.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The colorful ingredients make this salad as beautiful as it is delicious—great for impressing guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese. Each component plays an important role in bringing out the flavors of this dish.

For the Salad

• 2 handfuls mixed salad greens (I used lamb’s lettuce)
• 1 large ripe pear
• 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup (35g) walnuts
• 2 oz (60g) semi-firm goat cheese, 4 slices

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• salt and pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this salad is how flexible it is! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Experiment with Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you want a different crunch.
• Try Different Cheeses: Feta or blue cheese can add unique flavors if goat cheese isn’t your favorite.
• Seasonal Fruits: In place of pears, try apples or berries depending on what’s in season.

How to Make Pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Greens

Start by washing your mixed salad greens thoroughly. Once cleaned, spin them dry using a salad spinner or pat them gently with a towel. This step ensures your greens stay crisp and fresh when served.

Step 2: Slice the Pear

Next, take your ripe pear and peel it if you prefer (the skin adds texture!). Cut it into quarters, remove the core, then slice each quarter thinly. Arrange these beautiful slices on top of your bed of greens; they add such sweetness!

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the walnuts until they turn golden brown and fragrant. This only takes a few minutes—keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly! Toasting brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.

Step 4: Cube the Cheese

Cut your semi-firm goat cheese into small cubes. If you’re using slices instead, feel free to break them into smaller pieces. The creamy texture of the cheese complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Layer the dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and cubed cheese on top of your greens and pear slices. It’s like building a little edible masterpiece!

Step 6: Make the Dressing

For the dressing, combine olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small jar. Close it up tight and shake well until everything is nicely mixed. Taste-test your dressing—it should be zesty with just the right hint of sweetness.

Step 7: Dress Your Salad

Drizzle your homemade dressing over the assembled salad just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant while ensuring all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Dig in! Enjoy every bite of this pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese as a refreshing side dish or light meal that’s sure to become one of your favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Pear Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese

Creating the perfect salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you elevate your pear walnut salad!

• Choose ripe pears: Selecting pears that are perfectly ripe enhances the salad’s sweetness and juiciness. Look for pears that yield slightly to pressure when gently squeezed.

• Toast the walnuts properly: Toasting walnuts releases their natural oils and intensifies their flavor. Make sure to keep an eye on them, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt!

• Customize the cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese or want to try something different, feel free to swap it out for feta or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile to the salad.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it easy to whip up this salad on busy weeknights!

• Add seasonal fruits: For a twist on this recipe, consider adding seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or sliced oranges. They’ll add a delightful pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Pear Walnut Salad with Cranberries and Goat Cheese

Serving your pear walnut salad beautifully can enhance the dining experience, making it feel special even on a casual night at home. Here are some simple yet effective ways to present this vibrant dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh mint or basil on top adds a refreshing touch that complements the savory flavors of the salad.
• Zest of lemon: Grating some lemon zest over the top provides an extra burst of citrus aroma, enhancing the overall brightness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, fluffy side dish made with quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and herbs complements the salad’s flavors while providing added protein.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini adds warmth and heartiness alongside your fresh salad.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For those looking for additional protein, grilled chicken or marinated tofu can be served alongside or mixed into the salad for a satisfying meal.
• Whole Grain Bread: A slice of rustic whole grain bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing on your plate, making for a wholesome addition.

Enjoy crafting your pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese is perfect for meal prep! It’s not only delicious but also holds up well in the fridge, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or lunch on the go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well due to its fresh ingredients.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the crunchy walnuts and tender greens.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served cold.
• If you’ve prepared it ahead of time, simply toss everything together before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious salad!

Can I make pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine everything right before serving for a fresh taste.

What dressing goes well with pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese?

A simple lemon dijon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the sweet pears and tangy goat cheese without overpowering them.

Can I substitute goat cheese in this pear walnut salad?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese or a nut-based cheese alternative that complements the other flavors.

What variations can I try with pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese?

Feel free to mix in other nuts like pecans or almonds, or add sliced apples for extra crunch. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds can also add color and sweetness!

Final Thoughts

This pear walnut salad with cranberries and goat cheese is not just a dish; it’s an experience bursting with freshness and flavor. It’s quick to prepare yet elegant enough to impress your guests. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own. Happy cooking!