Pear, Gorgonzola and Sweet & Spicy Pecan Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect seasonal balance: Combines sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy in every bite.
• Eye-catching and elegant: Ideal for holiday dinners or special gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly: Pecans and dressing can be prepped in advance.
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Pecans

• ¾ cup whole pecans
• 3 Tbsp brown sugar
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

Champagne Vinaigrette

• 3 Tbsp champagne vinegar
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, freshly grated
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ½ cup olive oil

Salad

• 8 cups spring greens
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 2 pears, matchstick-cut
• ½ cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese

Directions

1. Toast pecans: Line a plate with parchment. Over medium-low heat, melt brown sugar and cayenne in a nonstick skillet. Add pecans, toss to coat for ~1–2 minutes, remove to parchment, separate to cool.
2. Make vinaigrette: In a bowl, whisk vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in olive oil until emulsified. Keep chilled up to 1 week.
3. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, season greens with salt and pepper. Add pear matchsticks, pecans, and gorgonzola. Drizzle vinaigrette and toss gently. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: ~25 minutes
• Cook time: ~5 minutes
• Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

• Use walnuts instead of pecans, or candied pecans.
• Swap spring greens for arugula or mixed salad greens.
• Try maple syrup in place of honey for pecans or dressing.
• Add dried cranberries or cherries for more sweetness.
• Boost with grilled chicken or roasted beets for a heartier salad.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Pecans stay crisp in an airtight container at room temperature (avoid refrigeration with moisture).
• For best texture, keep pears and dressing separate and combine just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the pecans ahead of time?

Yes—the sweet & spicy pecans can be made ahead and stored airtight; cool completely before sealing.

2. How can I avoid soggy greens?

Dress the salad just before serving, not in advance. Store greens, dressing, and toppings separately.

3. What pear varieties are best?

Any crisp pear works well. Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou are great—just ensure they’re ripe yet firm.

4. Can I make the dressing vegan?

Yes—sub honey with maple syrup.

5. What’s a good substitute for champagne vinegar?

Use white balsamic, apple cider, or white wine vinegar.

6. Is this gluten‑free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

7. Can I add protein?

Absolutely—add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or salmon for a complete meal.

8. How spicy are the pecans?

Fairly mild courtesy of ¼ tsp cayenne; adjust to your spice preference.

9. How should I cut the pears?

Cut into matchstick-sized strips for easy eating and elegant appearance.

10. Are there nut-free options?

Yes—sub pecans with seeds like pepitas or sunflower seeds, or omit entirely.

Conclusion

This Pear, Gorgonzola and Sweet & Spicy Pecan Salad delivers a gorgeous mix of flavors and textures that shine in every bite. Whether prepping for a festive occasion or a classy dinner, it’s easy to assemble, visually stunning, and adaptable. Enjoy it fresh, and don’t forget to save leftovers in stages to maintain perfect crunch and taste.

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