Description
The “Pear and Arugula Delight with Balsamic Dressing” is a culinary fusion that tantalizes the taste buds with its blend of flavors and textures. This salad expertly combines the sweetness of pears, the tang of goat cheese, the crunchiness of pecans, and the zesty kick of a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a vibrant starter or a light, nourishing meal, this recipe embodies the essence of gourmet simplicity.
Ingredients
Scale
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 5 oz arugula
- 3 pears, any variety
- 4 to 5 oz goat cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pecans, toasted and cooled
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions (Optional) Soak the onions in a small bowl of ice water for 10 minutes to lessen their harshness. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Make the Dressing Combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper into a mason jar. Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well blended.
- Assemble the Salad In a large, shallow serving bowl, spread the arugula as the base. Layer the thinly sliced pears and soaked onions evenly over the greens.
- Add Toppings Gently sprinkle the goat cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans over the pears and onions.
- Dress the Salad Shake the dressing again if separation occurs, and drizzle it sparingly across the salad just before serving.