Description
This Festive Autumn Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette is a delectable union of seasonal flavors and textures that’s perfect for autumnal celebrations or a nutritious side dish. Featuring a base of fresh mixed greens, complemented by the sweetness of ripe pears and dried cranberries, the crunch of pecan halves, and the bold flavor of blue cheese, this salad is as appealing on the palate as it is to the eye. The homemade tangy vinaigrette dressing ties all the ingredients together into a harmonious dish that’s bound to impress at any table.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces of mixed greens
- 3 pears, chopped
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 6 tbsp white wine vinegar (or champagne vinegar)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves together.
Step 2
In a separate small bowl, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until well combined.
Step 3
Drizzle the freshly prepared vinaigrette over the mixed salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure even coating and distribution of the dressing.
Step 4
Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the salad just before serving to maintain its texture and rich taste.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is around 20 minutes, making it an quick and efficient choice for a wholesome meal.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: If there are leftovers, store the salad separately from the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This helps keep the ingredients from becoming soggy.
- For best freshness: Add the dressing and blue cheese just before serving, even when eating leftovers.
Conclusion
The Festive Autumn Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette offers a lively blend of textures and flavors that make it not only a delicious addition to your meal but also visually appealing. It embraces the essence of autumn with ingredients that reflect the season’s richness. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this salad is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal. Whether shared at a gathering or enjoyed solo, it promises to be a delightful experience.
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Festive Autumn Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Festive Autumn Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette is a delectable union of seasonal flavors and textures that’s perfect for autumnal celebrations or a nutritious side dish. Featuring a base of fresh mixed greens, complemented by the sweetness of ripe pears and dried cranberries, the crunch of pecan halves, and the bold flavor of blue cheese, this salad is as appealing on the palate as it is to the eye. The homemade tangy vinaigrette dressing ties all the ingredients together into a harmonious dish that’s bound to impress at any table.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces of mixed greens
- 3 pears, chopped
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 6 tbsp white wine vinegar (or champagne vinegar)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp sugar (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves together.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until well combined.
- Drizzle the freshly prepared vinaigrette over the mixed salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure even coating and distribution of the dressing.
- Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the salad just before serving to maintain its texture and rich taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes