Description
Sweet caramelized pears, tangy blue cheese, and crisp arugula come together in this stunning Caramelized Pear and Blue Cheese Salad, perfect for an easy dinner, elegant appetizer, or quick lunch idea. The balsamic glaze adds richness while crunchy walnuts provide a satisfying contrast. Whether you’re looking for healthy snack ideas, fall dinner recipes, or seasonal food inspiration, this salad delivers a balanced burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
2 ripe but firm pears
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon honey
4 cups fresh arugula
3 oz blue cheese
½ cup candied walnuts
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pinch salt
¼ cup thinly sliced red onions
2 tablespoons dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Wash the pears and slice into ½-inch wedges, removing cores and seeds.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add pear slices and cook for 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Drizzle honey over the pears and cook for another 1–2 minutes until caramelized. Set aside.
4. Rinse and dry the arugula thoroughly.
5. Crumble or cube the blue cheese and toast the walnuts if not candied.
6. Place arugula on a serving platter. Arrange pears over the greens.
7. Sprinkle with blue cheese and walnuts.
8. Drizzle with olive oil (optional) and balsamic glaze.
9. Add any optional toppings like red onions or cranberries.
10. Serve immediately while pears are slightly warm and cheese is soft.
Notes
Let the pears cool slightly before adding to the greens to avoid wilting.
Use a high-quality blue cheese for deeper flavor and creaminess.
You can prep all components in advance, but assemble right before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Sauté / Toss
- Cuisine: American / Seasonal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: easy salad, pear salad, blue cheese, fall salad, elegant appetizer, dinner ideas, quick lunch