If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances crisp, creamy, tart, and sweet all in one bite, the Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. This vibrant salad combines fresh mixed greens with juicy pears, crunchy pecans, tangy dried cranberries, and the luscious punch of crumbled blue cheese. The whole ensemble is brought together with a dreamy white wine vinaigrette that ties every flavor and texture into a harmonious winter celebration on your plate. Whether you’re looking for a festive side or a light, satisfying meal, this recipe is guaranteed to brighten your cold-weather menu and warm your heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe that’s bursting with flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crunch of pecans to the creamy tang of blue cheese, making this salad a deliciously balanced experience.
- Mixed Greens (10 ounces): A fresh, leafy base that gives the salad its vibrant color and crispness.
- Pears (3, chopped): Sweet and juicy, the pears add a refreshing softness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Pecan Halves (2 cups): Toasty and crunchy, pecans bring texture and a subtle nutty warmth.
- Dried Cranberries (1 cup): These add a chewy sweetness and a pop of color, perfect for winter themes.
- Blue Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Creamy and tangy, blue cheese is the bold flavor star of this salad.
- White Wine Vinegar (6 tablespoons): This bright acidic element lifts and balances the sweetness and richness; Champagne vinegar is a lovely choice.
- Dijon Mustard (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle kick and emulsifies the vinaigrette.
- Olive Oil (1/2 cup): Smooth, fruity oil that rounds out the dressing for a luscious finish.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavors in the salad and dressing.
- Sugar (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A hint of sweetness to balance the acidity if desired.
How to Make Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves. This mix sets the stage for your salad, bringing fresh, sweet, chewy, and crunchy components together. Toss gently to spread everything evenly.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette
In a smaller bowl, whisk the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until well combined. This vinaigrette is key to this Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe—it’s bright, tangy, and creamy, perfectly complementing the fruits and nuts.
Step 3: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the vinaigrette over your combined salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly, so every leaf and bite gets coated in the zesty dressing. This step ensures each forkful has that perfect balance of flavors and textures you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Add the Blue Cheese
Finish by sprinkling the crumbled blue cheese generously over the top. The creamy, punchy cheese adds a stunning depth that elevates the salad from simple to spectacular. Give a final gentle toss if you like, or leave it artfully piled on for presentation.
How to Serve Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra toasted pecans or a few delicate pear slices on top can add an inviting crunch and a visual wow. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also add a fresh pop of green and a subtle flavor boost without overpowering the salad.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or a savory quiche for a fuller meal. It’s also an excellent side alongside roasted meats like turkey or pork, making it a versatile star for holiday dinners or casual gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this salad in individual clear glass bowls to showcase its vibrant layers, or use a large wooden platter for a rustic, shareable style. Drizzle a little extra vinaigrette just before serving to keep everything fresh and glistening.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To avoid sogginess, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving again.
Freezing
Because of the fresh greens and delicate ingredients like pears and blue cheese, this salad does not freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t recommended as it will wilt the greens and alter the vibrant flavors you love in the Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe.
FAQs
Can I substitute the blue cheese with another type of cheese?
Absolutely! If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, try feta or goat cheese for a similar creamy tang that complements the pears and cranberries nicely.
What other nuts can I use if I don’t have pecans?
Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives and still add delicious crunch and nuttiness that pairs well with the flavors in this salad.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the blue cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. Make sure your vinaigrette ingredients don’t contain honey or other animal products.
Can I prepare the vinaigrette ahead of time?
Definitely. The vinaigrette can be made and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just whisk again before using, as the oil and vinegar might separate over time.
How can I keep the pears from browning?
To prevent browning, toss the chopped pears in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This keeps them looking fresh and appetizing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe that makes it a highlight of any meal. It’s easy to prepare, full of exciting flavors and textures, and perfect for sharing with those you love. Give it a try and watch how this refreshing winter salad becomes a cherished favorite on your table, season after season.
Print
Winter Salad with Pears, Cranberries, and Blue Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and vibrant winter salad combining mixed greens, sweet pears, crunchy pecans, and tangy dried cranberries, all dressed in a zesty white wine vinaigrette and topped with creamy crumbled blue cheese. Perfect as a light meal or a festive side dish.
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 preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves, evenly distributing the ingredients.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure all components are coated with the dressing.
- Add Blue Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese on top of the dressed salad just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegan variation, omit the blue cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Champagne vinegar adds a delicate flavor; if unavailable, use white wine vinegar as a replacement.
- The sugar in the dressing is optional and can be adjusted based on the sweetness of the pears.
- Chill the salad ingredients beforehand for an extra refreshing taste.
- Toast the pecans lightly for added crunch and a deeper nutty flavor.
