If you’re craving a burst of vibrant flavors and textures in one bowl, the Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe is your soon-to-be favorite. This salad perfectly balances the natural sweetness of ripe pears and tart cranberries with the crunch of pecans and the creamy punch of blue cheese. It’s refreshing yet comforting, making it an ideal dish to brighten up chilly days and impress guests with a seasonal medley that’s as easy as it is elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to this salad’s success. Each item plays an essential role, whether it’s adding crispness, sweetness, tang, or richness, resulting in a harmonious bowl of winter goodness.
- 10 ounces Mixed greens: Choose a vibrant mix like baby spinach, arugula, and red leaf lettuce for a dynamic base full of color and nutrients.
- 3 Pears (chopped): Use firm, ripe pears such as Bartlett or Bosc for a juicy sweetness and refreshing texture.
- 2 cups Pecan halves: These add a toasty crunch that complements the soft fruits and creamy cheese beautifully.
- 1 cup Dried Cranberries: Their tartness brightens the salad and provides a chewy contrast to the tender greens.
- 1/2 cup Blue Cheese (crumbled): The bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese gives the dish an indulgent finish without overpowering it.
- 6 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar: Preferably Champagne vinegar for its delicate acidity that lifts all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle kick and emulsifies the dressing perfectly.
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for richness and smoothness in the vinaigrette.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors without making the salad salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon Sugar (optional): Balances the acidity of the vinegar if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
How to Make Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by tossing together the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves in a large bowl. This combination creates a beautiful mix of colors, textures, and flavors which are the heart of this Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe. Handle the pears gently to keep their perfect shape and freshness.
Step 2: Whisk the Vinaigrette
In a smaller bowl, blend the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until fully emulsified. This dressing adds just the right amount of tangy brightness and richness to balance the sweet and savory elements in the salad. Whisking well ensures every bite is perfectly coated.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to make sure each component is lightly dressed. This step allows the flavors to mingle and the textures to shine, creating the signature delightful experience of the Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe.
Step 4: Add the Blue Cheese
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top. This finishing touch adds a creamy, tangy layer that makes every forkful irresistible. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s what makes this salad pop with flavor!
How to Serve Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, consider adding some freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of honey to bring out even more complexity. A handful of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can deepen the aroma and enhance the wintery vibe.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a perfect light side for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals. Crispy crusty bread or a warm quinoa pilaf can also round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in clear glass bowls or on a rustic wooden platter to showcase the vibrant colors. Laying pear slices in fan shapes or grouping pecans in clusters adds an eye-catching detail. For a festive touch, sprinkle extra dried cranberries and blue cheese around the serving plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep it fresh and crunchy, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Freezing
Since this salad features fresh greens and cheese, freezing is not recommended as it will damage the texture and flavor of the ingredients. Instead, prioritize making only what you plan to eat fresh.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If pairing it with a warm main dish, simply serve the salad chilled alongside for a fresh contrast.
FAQs
Can I substitute the blue cheese with another cheese?
Absolutely! Feta or goat cheese can be delicious milder alternatives that maintain the creaminess and balance of flavors in this salad without overwhelming the pears and cranberries.
Are there any nut-free options?
If pecans aren’t your thing or you have allergies, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds make excellent crunchy substitutes that keep the texture interesting.
How do I keep the pears from browning?
Toss the chopped pears in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This prevents oxidation and keeps their color fresh and inviting.
Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Yes, the vinaigrette can be whisked together and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using to recombine the ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for a holiday menu?
Definitely! The seasonal ingredients and elegant presentation make the Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe a standout choice for festive gatherings and special occasions.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe is a game changer for adding vibrant, fresh flavors to your winter table. It’s quick to assemble, bright in flavor, and indulgently creamy in just the right way. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for this delightful salad whenever you want a burst of seasonal cheer in every bite.
Print
Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, Pecan, and Blue Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Winter Salad combines fresh mixed greens with juicy pears, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries, all brought together by a tangy white wine vinaigrette and topped with creamy crumbled blue cheese. It’s a refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for chilly months, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 10 ounces Mixed greens
- 3 Pears, chopped
- 2 cups Pecan halves
- 1 cup Dried Cranberries
- 1/2 cup Blue Cheese, crumbled
Vinaigrette
- 6 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar (Champagne vinegar recommended if available)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients. In a large bowl, add the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves. Gently toss to combine all the elements.
- Prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until fully emulsified and smooth.
- Toss salad with vinaigrette. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Add blue cheese topping. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the salad just before serving for a creamy and tangy finish.
Notes
- Champagne vinegar adds a delicate flavor but white wine vinegar is a great substitute.
- The sugar in the vinaigrette is optional and can be omitted to reduce sweetness.
- For added texture, you can toast the pecans lightly before adding.
- This salad is best served fresh as the dressing can wilt the greens over time.
