Why Make This Recipe
Savory Roasted Pear Blue Cheese Arugula Salad is a delightful dish that blends sweet, salty, and nutty flavors. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you are looking for a light lunch or a fancy appetizer for a dinner party. The combination of roasted pears, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts on a bed of fresh arugula creates a vibrant and tasty experience. Plus, making this salad is easy and doesn’t require too much time.
How to Make Savory Roasted Pear Blue Cheese Arugula Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Arugula (Fresh and washed.)
- 2 pieces Ripe Pears (Bosc or Anjou, sliced into wedges.)
- 0.5 cup Blue Cheese (Crumble for topping.)
- 0.5 cup Walnuts (Chopped and toasted.)
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin for dressing.)
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar (For dressing.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the pears, cut them in half, remove the core, and slice into wedges.
- Place pear wedges on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Roast the pears for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and tender.
- Toast the walnuts in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and golden.
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh arugula.
- Once the pears are roasted, let them cool slightly before adding to the arugula.
- Add the toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese, tossing gently to combine.
- Whisk together the remaining olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then drizzle over the salad.
- Toss the salad gently to coat and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Savory Roasted Pear Blue Cheese Arugula Salad
This salad is best served fresh. You can present it on a large platter for sharing or in individual bowls for a more personal touch. Garnishing with extra crumbled blue cheese or a few walnut pieces on top adds an appealing visual effect.
How to Store Savory Roasted Pear Blue Cheese Arugula Salad
If you have leftovers, you can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the freshness of the arugula.
Tips to Make Savory Roasted Pear Blue Cheese Arugula Salad
- Choose ripe pears for the best flavor and sweetness.
- If you want more crunch, use candied walnuts instead of toasted ones.
- To save time, you can roast the pears ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
Variation
Feel free to swap out the blue cheese for feta or goat cheese if you prefer a different taste. You can also add grilled chicken for a more filling meal or substitute the arugula with spinach for a tender green option.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese, like goat cheese or feta, if blue cheese is not to your taste.
How can I make it vegan?
To make this salad vegan, skip the cheese and use a plant-based dressing. You can also use nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
While the salad is best fresh, you can prepare the roasted pears and toasted walnuts ahead of time. Just mix it all together right before serving.