Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Pear and Walnut Salad, a delightful combination of juicy pears, crunchy walnuts, mixed salad leaves, and tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or a side dish that complements any main course.

Why Make This Recipe

The Pear and Walnut Salad is a quick and easy dish that requires minimal ingredients and effort to prepare. It offers a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side salad for dinner, or a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

How to Make Pear and Walnut Salad

Ingredients:

1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

2 teaspoons white sugar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

½ teaspoon dried oregano

Sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

2 small pears

4 cups mixed salad leaves

⅓ cup thinly sliced red onion

⅓ cup walnut halves

30 g shaved pecorino cheese

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Toast the walnuts on a baking sheet for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool.

Make the dressing by combining olive oil, vinegar, sugar, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper in a jar. Shake well to mix.

Slice the pears thinly after removing the core.

Toss the pear slices with the dressing in a mixing bowl.

Add salad leaves, onion, cooled walnuts, and half of the pecorino cheese. Toss to combine.

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and top with the remaining pecorino cheese.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Pear and Walnut Salad

Serve the Pear and Walnut Salad as a light and refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a quiche. It also makes a great addition to a buffet spread or as a standalone lunch option.

How to Store Pear and Walnut Salad

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Note that the salad may become slightly wilted due to the dressing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Tips to Make Pear and Walnut Salad

Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by modifying the amount of sugar to suit your taste preference.

Choose ripe but firm pears for the salad to ensure a balance of sweetness and texture.

Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients like dried cranberries, feta cheese, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Variation

For a vegan version of the salad, substitute the pecorino cheese with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast flakes. You can also add a sprinkle of maple syrup to the dressing for an extra hint of sweetness.