Pear Salad with Gorgonzola and Walnuts

A bowl of pear salad in a bowl being tossed with two forks.

Pear Salad with Gorgonzola and Walnuts

Salads are for all year round, but this one is perfect for cooler weather when pears are perfectly in season. Adorn your next holiday table with this bright, balanced side dish.

Course Side Dish

Prep Time 10

Servings people

Calories 338kcal

Author Rachel Ballard

Ingredients

For the salad

4 cups spring lettuce mix about one cup per person
1/2 cup gorgonzola any blue cheese will work here
1 Bosc or Bartlett pear cored and thinly sliced
1/2 cup walnuts preferrably toasted, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries optional

For the dressing

1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 1/2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
pinch salt and pepper
4 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

In a large bowl toss the lettuce, blue cheese, pears, walnuts and cranberries if using them. Set aside.
To make the dressing, mix the maple syrup, vinegar, mustard, salt and pepper in a small bowl with a fork until combined. While continuing to stir, slowly pour in the olive oil until mixed. If it doesn't totally emulsify that's okay.
Pour over the dressing just before serving.
To make ahead: Mix the salad ingredients and dressing and store separately in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Notes

To make this recipe for a larger crowd, estimate about 1 cup of lettuces per person.

Nutrition