Name: Pear and Candied Pecan Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 pinch sea salt; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp water; 1 cup pecans; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 garlic clove (minced); 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 10 oz baby spring mix; 1 pear (sliced); 1 cup dried cherries; 1 cup candied pecans; 1/3 cup feta cheese; 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette

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Pear and Candied Pecan Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

This delightful Pear and Candied Pecan Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a great addition to any meal or a satisfying main dish on its own. With the sweetness of juicy pears and crunchy candied pecans, paired with a zesty homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is both refreshing and filling.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this Pear and Candied Pecan Salad. First and foremost, it brings together a harmonious mix of sweet and savory elements that please the palate. Pears offer a natural sweetness, while candied pecans add a delightful crunch. The feta cheese introduces a creamy saltiness, and the balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully.

This salad is not only tasty but also visually stunning, thanks to its vibrant ingredients. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings, as it appeals to a wide range of tastes. Additionally, it can easily be modified based on what you have on hand or personal preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

How to Make Pear and Candied Pecan Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creating this Pear and Candied Pecan Salad is straightforward, and it only requires a few steps. Below, I’ll guide you through making the candied pecans, the balsamic vinaigrette, and finally assembling the salad.

Ingredients

4 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 pinch sea salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp water
1 cup pecans
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 garlic clove (minced)
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
10 oz baby spring mix
1 pear (sliced)
1 cup dried cherries
1 cup candied pecans
1/3 cup feta cheese
1 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Directions

Candied Pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, sea salt, vanilla extract, and water. Stir until mixed well.
- Add the pecans to the bowl and toss them until they are well coated with the sugar mixture.
- Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pecans are golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.
Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Salad Assembly:
- In a large salad bowl, place the baby spring mix as the base.
- Add the sliced pear, dried cherries, candied pecans, and feta cheese on top of the greens.
- Drizzle your freshly made balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

Pro Tips for Success with Pear and Candied Pecan Salad

Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh pears for the best flavor. Look for ripe but firm pears that will hold up well in the salad.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the candied pecans and balsamic vinaigrette a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble your salad just before serving.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet salad, you can reduce the amount of honey in the dressing and use fewer candied pecans.
Experiment with Greens: While baby spring mix is delightful, feel free to mix it up with other greens like arugula, kale, or spinach for varied flavor profiles.
Serve in Individual Bowls: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions of the salad in bowls rather than a communal bowl.

Flavor Variations for Pear and Candied Pecan Salad

Cheese Alternatives: Instead of feta cheese, try goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor that will complement the sweetness of the pears.
Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, turkey, or chickpeas to make the salad even more filling and turn it into a complete meal.
Experiment with Dried Fruits: Instead of dried cherries, consider using cranberries, raisins, or even diced apples for a change in flavor and texture.
Nuts Galore: Try substituting or adding walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Toast them lightly to enhance their taste.
Zesty Twist: Add some citrus by including orange or grapefruit segments for a refreshing zing.

Serving Suggestions for Pear and Candied Pecan Salad

This Pear and Candied Pecan Salad is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

Serve it as a light lunch alongside a slice of whole-grain bread.
Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner that balances protein and greens.
Present it as an impressive side salad for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
This salad also works beautifully as a refreshing appetizer during warm weather.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pear and Candied Pecan Salad

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store the components separately to maintain their quality:

Candied Pecans: Store any leftover candied pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They may lose their crunch if refrigerated.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: Keep the vinaigrette in a jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using.
Salad Greens and Fruits: For best results, don’t assemble the entire salad until you’re ready to serve. Keep the greens and sliced pears in the fridge, and combine them with other ingredients just before enjoying.

It’s not advisable to freeze this salad once it’s assembled. Freezing can change the texture of both the greens and the pears, making them less appetizing upon thawing.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————|—————-|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbs | 23g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 150mg |

FAQ About Pear and Candied Pecan Salad

Can I use other types of nuts in this salad?

Yes! While the recipe specifically calls for pecans, you can easily swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios. Each nut will impart a unique flavor and texture to the salad, making it versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences.

What type of pears work best for this salad?

Bartlett pears and Anjou pears are excellent choices for this salad due to their sweetness and juiciness. Look for pears that are ripe yet firm, as they hold up better in salads and add a satisfying crunch alongside the other ingredients.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of this Pear and Candied Pecan Salad, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Additionally, ensure that the honey used in the vinaigrette is swapped out for a vegan sweetener such as maple syrup.

What can I do if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Each will give the dressing a different flavor profile, but they will still work well in this salad. You can also add a little sweetness if needed to mimic balsamic’s characteristic taste.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this Pear and Candied Pecan Salad are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, always double-check labels on any store-bought ingredients to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources.

Final Thoughts

This Pear and Candied Pecan Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful addition to your table. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a festive gathering, it combines nutritious ingredients in a way that celebrates flavor and freshness. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite protein, each bite is a delightful experience. Try this salad today, and enjoy the vibrant medley of flavors that make it a standout choice throughout the year!

Pear and Candied Pecan Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette