If you’re craving a salad that bursts with flavor and contrasts in the best way possible, you’ve found your new favorite. This Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe is a celebration of crisp pears, creamy blue cheese, crunchy nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully. It’s the kind of salad that feels light and fresh yet indulgently satisfying, perfect for lunch or as a stunning side at dinner. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever made salad without this combination.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a salad preparation setup on a white marbled surface, showing one large white bowl filled with fresh leafy greens featuring different shades of green and purple, including spinach and red leaf lettuce. Surrounding this bowl are five smaller white bowls: one with thinly sliced apple pieces showing yellow and red skin, one with dried dark red cranberries, one with crumbled white and blue cheese, one with chopped light brown walnuts, and one clear jar containing a bright yellow mustard dressing with a small silver spoon inside. Scattered walnut pieces are seen on the surface near the bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Everything you need for this salad is simple and easy to find, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures. From the sweetness of the pear to the sharp punch of blue cheese, every bite is a delightful experience.

4 cups mixed greens: Provides a fresh, crisp base that lets the toppings shine.
1 ripe pear, thinly sliced: Adds natural sweetness and juiciness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese: Brings a creamy, tangy element that’s bold and rich.
1/4 cup candied pecans or walnuts: Offers a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness.
1/4 cup dried cranberries: Adds a chewy texture and tartness that brightens the salad.
2 tbsp olive oil: Forms the luscious base of the tangy vinaigrette dressing.
1 tbsp red wine vinegar: Gives the vinaigrette its bright, sharp tang.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds depth and a subtle kick to the dressing.
1 tsp honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
Salt and pepper: Enhances all the flavors and ties everything together perfectly.

How to Make Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Start by placing your mixed greens in a large salad bowl. The greens create a crisp, refreshing foundation that balances the richness of your toppings. Make sure the greens are well-rinsed and thoroughly dried for the best texture.

Step 2: Add the Pear and Cheese

Next, layer thin slices of ripe pear across the greens. The pear will provide juicy sweetness that complements the tangy bite of the blue cheese, which you’ll add sprinkled evenly on top. The creamy crumbles are what make this salad truly irresistible.

Step 3: Include Nuts and Cranberries

Scatter the candied pecans or walnuts over the salad for a delightful crunch. The nuts also add a touch of caramelized flavor, making each bite exciting. Don’t forget to add dried cranberries—they deliver bursts of tartness and a lovely chewy contrast.

Step 4: Whisk the Tangy Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified. The vinaigrette is where the salad’s magic is sealed, bringing all the ingredients together with a lively, tangy dressing.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients without bruising the pear slices. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.

How to Serve Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a layered salad set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is fresh green spinach leaves with some mixed greens. On top of that are thin slices of yellow pears arranged in a fan shape around the bowl. Scattered over the salad are creamy white cheese chunks, small crunchy nuts, and some dried cranberries adding dark red spots. A light drizzle of brown dressing runs over the top, catching the light. A woman's hand holds a wooden spoon over the salad ready to serve. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your salad with a few fresh herb sprigs like thyme or parsley. Cracked black pepper on top adds a lovely visual and boosts flavor. You could also add a few extra candied nuts or thin pear slices for presentation delight.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside simple grilled chicken or roasted turkey, making it perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s also a great complement to roasted root vegetables or crusty artisan bread to round out a wholesome menu.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, consider serving this salad in individual glass jars or beautiful bowls to showcase the layers. Another fun idea is to lightly grill the pear slices for a warm twist that contrasts with the cool greens and rich blue cheese. Either way, this salad is stunning on the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the salad (without the dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the vinaigrette separate to prevent the greens and pears from becoming soggy.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Because of the delicate nature of greens and pears, freezing is not recommended as it will drastically change the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh, raw salad, reheating is not necessary or advised. Instead, toss leftovers with fresh greens and dress again for renewed crispness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of blue cheese?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, gorgonzola is a fantastic alternative that’s creamy but not as pungent.

What pear variety works best in this salad?

Bartlett or Anjou pears are ideal because they are sweet and firm, holding their shape well when sliced thin.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes, the vinaigrette can be whisked up and stored in the fridge for a few days. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians and gluten-free diets?

Definitely! All ingredients in this Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe align perfectly with vegetarian and gluten-free dietary needs.

How can I add more protein to this salad?

Adding grilled chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas will boost the protein content and turn this beautiful salad into a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably delightful about the way sweet pears and bold blue cheese come together with crunchy nuts and a punchy vinaigrette in this Tangy Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe. It’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to prepare — a dish sure to brighten your table and please your palate. Give it a try, and prepare to make it part of your regular rotation!