Description
Light, elegant, and full of contrasting flavors, this Pear and Blue Cheese Salad inspired by the Barefoot Contessa (Ina Garten) is a refreshing and sophisticated dish. It combines ripe pears, creamy blue cheese, crisp greens, and crunchy nuts—all brought together with a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Perfect as a starter or a light lunch, this salad is a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and sharp.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
6 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
2 ripe but firm pears, thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
½ cup candied pecans or walnuts
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Vinaigrette:
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Vinaigrette
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In a small bowl or jar, whisk together vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
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Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients
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Wash and dry the greens.
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Core the pears and thinly slice them—no need to peel unless you prefer.
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Slice the red onion (if using) into thin rounds.
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Measure out blue cheese and nuts.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
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In a large serving bowl, gently toss the greens with a bit of the vinaigrette.
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Top with sliced pears, crumbled blue cheese, nuts, and red onion.
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Drizzle with more dressing and finish with cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Serve
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Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture.
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Optional: Add extra vinaigrette on the side.
Notes
Use Ripe Pears – Look for pears that are slightly soft to the touch but still firm enough to slice.
Choose Quality Cheese – Bold, crumbly blue cheese gives the salad its signature flavor.
Candied Nuts – Add sweetness and crunch (store-bought or homemade).
Serve Immediately – Best when freshly tossed to keep pears and greens crisp.
Layer the Ingredients – Build in layers for a beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American