Caramelized Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Caramelized Pear and Blue Cheese Salad combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an elegant yet simple dish that works beautifully as a starter or a light meal.

Ingredients

• 2–3 pears, unpeeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 30g unsalted butter
• 2 handfuls arugula (or spring mix)
• 100g crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
• 30g chopped walnuts, toasted

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the unpeeled pears and toss them with lemon juice and honey in a bowl to prevent browning and add sweetness.
2. Step 2: Heat a dry non-stick pan over medium heat and toast the chopped walnuts for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the pears and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are softened and caramelized.
4. Step 4: Arrange the arugula on serving plates. Top with the warm caramelized pears, crumbled blue cheese, and toasted walnuts.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately while the pears are warm and the cheese starts to soften, enhancing the flavors.

Tips & Variations

• Use ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape during caramelization.
• Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy sweetness that complements the blue cheese.

Storage

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the caramelized pears and greens lose their texture when stored. If needed, keep components separate in airtight containers for up to one day. Reheat pears gently in a pan before assembling, but avoid reheating the whole salad to preserve freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, creamy cheeses like goat cheese or feta can be used as a milder alternative to blue cheese while still adding a tangy richness.

What is the best way to toast walnuts?

Toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes. This brings out their natural oils and enhances flavor.

Caramelized Pear and Blue Cheese Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 130 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A sophisticated and flavorful salad combining caramelized pears, tangy blue cheese, toasted walnuts, and fresh arugula. Sweet honey-glazed pears are gently sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness, complementing the creamy, sharp blue cheese and crunchy walnuts to create a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit

• 2–3 pears, unpeeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey

Dairy and Fats

• 30g unsalted butter
• 100g crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort)

Greens and Nuts

• 2 handfuls arugula (or spring mix)
• 30g chopped walnuts, toasted

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Instructions

1. Prepare Pears: Slice the unpeeled pears and toss them with lemon juice and honey in a bowl. This will prevent browning and infuse the pears with sweetness.
2. Toast Walnuts: Heat a dry non-stick pan over medium heat and toast the chopped walnuts for 3–4 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Caramelize Pears: In the same pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the honey-coated pear slices and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pears become softened and caramelized with a golden brown color.
4. Assemble Salad: Arrange the fresh arugula evenly on serving plates. Top with the warm caramelized pears, crumbled blue cheese, and the toasted walnuts to bring layers of taste and texture together.
5. Serve: Serve immediately while the pears are warm and the blue cheese starts to soften, enhancing the contrast and melding the flavors beautifully.

Notes

• Use ripe but firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for best caramelizing results.
• Substitute arugula with spring mix or baby spinach for a milder green base.
• For a nuttier flavor, try toasted pecans or hazelnuts instead of walnuts.
• If blue cheese is too strong, try a milder cheese like feta or goat cheese.
• This salad is best served immediately to enjoy the warm pears and softened cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramelized pear salad, blue cheese salad, arugula salad, toasted walnuts, warm pear salad, vegetarian salad