Pear and Gorgonzola Salad | Fresh, Elegant & Flavorful
1. Introduction
Pear and Gorgonzola Salad is a beautifully balanced dish that brings together sweetness, creaminess, crunch, and refreshing greens. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for everyday meals. The combination of juicy ripe pears, tangy gorgonzola cheese, toasted or candied walnuts, and fresh mixed greens creates a contrast of textures and flavors that feels refined but effortless.
This salad pairs well with savory entrées, but it also stands strong on its own as a light lunch. With a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette, every bite hits the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Pears
Ripe but firm pears (such as Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc) bring natural sweetness and delicate texture.
Gorgonzola Cheese
Provides creamy texture and tangy, bold flavor. Blue cheese or Roquefort can be used as alternatives.
Mixed Greens
Spring mix, arugula, or baby spinach works best for a soft, fresh base.
Walnuts
Candied walnuts add crunch and caramel sweetness. Toasted walnuts or pecans also work well.
Red Onion (Optional)
Thin slices add sharpness and color, balancing the sweetness of the pears.
Balsamic Vinaigrette
A simple dressing made with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper complements the rich and sweet flavors.
Substitutions
- Pears → Apples, figs, or fresh peaches
- Gorgonzola → Blue cheese, goat cheese, or feta
- Walnuts → Pecans, almonds, or pistachios
- Balsamic vinaigrette → Honey mustard or lemon vinaigrette
- Mixed greens → Spinach, arugula, or romaine
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Greens
Wash and dry mixed greens thoroughly. Moisture can thin out the dressing.
2. Slice the Pears
Cut pears into thin slices or wedges. Keep the skin on for texture and color.
3. Prepare the Walnuts
Use candied walnuts for a sweet crunch. If using regular walnuts, toast them lightly in a dry pan.
4. Make the Dressing
Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until combined.
5. Assemble the Salad
Place greens in a large bowl or on individual plates. Top with pear slices, gorgonzola crumbles, walnuts, and optional red onion.
6. Add the Dressing
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette lightly over the salad just before serving.
4. Tips and Variations
- Toss pears in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Use honey-roasted nuts for extra sweetness.
- Replace pears with grilled peaches for a summer variation.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add dried cranberries for added color and sweetness.
5. Serving Suggestions
Best Side Pairings
- Grilled steak
- Herb-roasted chicken
- Pasta with light cream sauces
- Soup pairings such as tomato basil or butternut squash
Garnish Ideas
- Extra gorgonzola crumbles
- Fresh cracked black pepper
- Microgreens
- A final drizzle of balsamic glaze
Drink Pairings
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Light sparkling wine
- Pear cider
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store components separately for best results.
- Mixed salad loses freshness quickly once dressed.
- Undressed salad lasts 1–2 days.
- Dressed salad should be eaten immediately.
- Store walnuts separately to keep them crunchy.
7. Recipe Notes
- Use firm pears to avoid mushy texture.
- Quality balsamic vinegar makes a noticeable difference.
- Assemble the salad right before serving to maintain crispness.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Sugar | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 240mg |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Calcium | 120mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Estimates only—values may vary.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American / European
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- ½ cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup candied walnuts
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare greens and place in a bowl.
- Slice pears and add to greens.
- Sprinkle with gorgonzola, walnuts, and onion.
- Whisk balsamic vinegar, oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle dressing over salad before serving.
Notes
- Keep pears from browning with lemon juice.
- Swap gorgonzola with goat cheese for a milder option.
Diet Tags
- Gluten-free
- Vegetarian
Health Benefits
- Pears provide fiber and antioxidants.
- Mixed greens add vitamins A and K.
- Walnuts offer omega-3 fatty acids.
- Gorgonzola contributes calcium and protein.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes—prepare ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
2. What pears work best?
Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears offer great texture and flavor.
3. Can I use another cheese?
Yes—blue cheese, goat cheese, or feta are great substitutes.
4. Can I make the dressing creamier?
Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard or 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise.
5. How do I keep the pears fresh?
Toss them lightly in lemon juice to prevent browning.