Pear and Blue Cheese Salad with Maple Cider Vinaigrette Recipe
This Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a delightful combination of fresh mixed greens, sweet Bosc pear slices, crunchy candied pecans, and tangy blue cheese, all tossed in a creamy homemade walnut oil dressing. The blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors makes it a perfect starter or side dish for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 (10 ounce) bag mixed field greens
- 1 Bosc pear, cored and sliced
- ½ cup sliced red onion (optional)
- ½ cup chopped candied pecans
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup walnut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: Place the mixed field greens in a large bowl. Add the sliced Bosc pear, red onion (if using), chopped candied pecans, and crumbled blue cheese. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a blender, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, brown sugar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend thoroughly until smooth.
- Incorporate the walnut oil: While the blender motor is running, slowly pour the walnut oil in a steady stream to emulsify the dressing. Continue blending until dressing becomes creamy, about 1 minute.
- Dress the salad: Pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh and balanced flavors.
Notes
- Optional red onion adds a sharp bite but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Use fresh Bosc pears for best texture and sweetness.
- For a vegan variation, substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and omit blue cheese.
- Dressing can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days; toss salad just before serving.
- Toast pecans lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor if desired.
