Belgian Endive, Blue Cheese, and Pear Salad
This delightful salad brings together the crispness of Belgian endive, the creamy richness of blue cheese, and the sweet juiciness of pears, creating a refreshing dish that not only dazzles the palate but also provides a vibrant presentation. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a light starter for any meal, and it comes together in a mere five minutes, making it a fabulous choice for those busy days when you still want to impress.
Description
My best friend follows a low-carb diet, and I crafted this salad for her birthday dinner. To my delight, everyone—adults and kids alike—enjoyed this simple yet sophisticated dish, which is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Recipe Category
- Category: Quick & Easy Salads (Under 15 Minutes)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pears | 2 |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Belgian Endive | 3 heads |
| Blue Cheese | 1 cup |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 173.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 25.3 mg |
| Sodium | 479.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.7 g |
| Sugars | 8.4 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pears: Begin by coring and thinly slicing the pears. To maintain their beautiful color and prevent browning, immediately sprinkle them with fresh lemon juice.
-
Combine Endive and Cheese: In a mixing bowl, toss together the Belgian endive leaves with the blue cheese, ensuring the cheese is well-distributed among the greens.
-
Dress the Salad: Drizzle a light oil and vinegar dressing over the endive and blue cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
-
Arrange the Salad: On a serving plate, artfully arrange the pear slices around the edges, creating a lovely border. Mound the endive and blue cheese salad mixture in the center for an eye-catching presentation.
-
Season to Taste: Finally, season the salad with freshly ground black pepper, enhancing its flavor profile and adding a touch of elegance.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is best served immediately, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine at their peak flavor. Pair it with a light white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing complement. Perfect for a birthday dinner or as a sophisticated side dish at your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress your guests while catering to dietary preferences.
Conclusion
In just five minutes, you have created a dish that not only meets the needs of a low-carb diet but also delights the taste buds of everyone at the table. Enjoy this easy, elegant salad as part of your culinary repertoire, and watch as it becomes a favorite among family and friends.
