Winter Pear Salad

This Winter Pear Salad is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy, ideal for cozy fall and winter meals. Tender pears, crunchy walnuts, and tangy feta come together beautifully, while a simple honey-Dijon dressing ties all the flavors together. It’s an easy, show-stopping salad that works as a side for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or even as a light lunch on its own! Perfect for festive gatherings, check out my Thanksgiving menu and Christmas menu for more ideas. If you love a fresh, flavorful salad, you will also want to try my Winter Chopped Salad.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Spring Mix Salad Blend: Use a mix of baby greens, arugula, or spinach if you prefer.
• Pears: Bosc or Anjou work beautifully; pick firm but ripe pears for the best texture.
• Walnut Halves: Pecans or almonds can be used instead. Toasting them lightly enhances the flavor.
• Shallot: Red onion is a fine substitute if needed.
• Dried Cranberries: Raisins or dried cherries are great alternatives.
• Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or blue cheese can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Dressing: A simple honey-Dijon vinaigrette that’s sweet, tangy, and lightly creamy. It ties all the flavors of the salad together beautifully without overpowering the pears and nuts.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the pears, nuts, and shallots in advance, but keep the salad greens separate until just before serving. Toss everything together with the dressing right before serving so the greens stay crisp.

Can I swap the pears for another fruit?

Absolutely! Apples, figs, or even roasted pears work beautifully and bring a slightly different flavor and texture while keeping that sweet-savory balance.

What does this salad taste like?

This salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It has sweet, tender pears, crunchy walnuts, salty, tangy feta, all brought together by a lightly sweet and tangy honey-Dijon dressing.

Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely! This salad works well with any vinaigrette you love. Balsamic, maple-Dijon, or even a simple lemon-honey dressing would be delicious. Just choose a dressing that complements the sweet pears and tangy feta without overpowering them.

Can I add protein or meat to this salad?

Absolutely! For a heartier meal, try adding bacon, grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey. Roasted chickpeas or toasted nuts also make a great protein-packed vegetarian option. This keeps the salad satisfying while maintaining its sweet, crunchy, and tangy balance.

Serving Ideas

This salad is as versatile as it is flavorful, making it perfect for a variety of occasions:

1. Holiday Dinner: Pair it with roasted turkey (like my cowboy butter turkey), brown sugar-glazed ham, or chicken for a fresh, colorful side that balances richer mains.
2. Weeknight Meal: Serve alongside grilled chicken, baked pork chops, or salmon for a quick and satisfying dinner.
3. Light Lunch or Snack: Enjoy it on its own with a slice of crusty bread, or toss it with some extra protein like grilled shrimp or chicken for a hearty, standalone meal.
4. Potluck or Gathering: The vibrant colors and mix of textures make it a crowd-pleaser at parties and family get-togethers.

How to Store Winter Pear Salad

Refrigerator: Store the prepared components (greens, pears, nuts, cheese) separately in airtight containers for up to 1 day. Dress and toss just before serving.

Dressing: Keep in a small jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.

Avoid Freezing: Fresh greens, pears, and dressing do not freeze well, so it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh.