Pear and Walnut Salad Recipe
Description:
The Pear and Walnut Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish, perfect for showcasing the sweetness of ripe pears. This simple yet flavorful salad is a breeze to prepare and makes a great appetizer or light meal. The crisp, juicy pears, combined with toasted walnuts and a tangy mustard dressing, deliver a wholesome combination thatβs both satisfying and healthy. Ideal for a light weekday lunch or a summer supper, this salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, such as a Spinach and Soya Sub.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Walnuts | 1/4 cup |
| Lettuce leaves (such as Romaine or Butterhead) | 4 cups (roughly torn) |
| Cucumber (diced) | 1/2 medium |
| Pears (peeled and sliced) | 2 medium pears |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Fresh tarragon leaves | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili powder (optional) | A pinch |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Preparation & Cooking Times
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Instructions
-
Toast the Walnuts:
In a skillet or dry pan, add the walnuts and heat them over medium-low flame. Roast the walnuts, stirring occasionally, until they become lightly crisp and golden brown, about 3β4 minutes. Once toasted, remove from the heat and set aside to cool. -
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
While the walnuts are cooling, tear the lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced cucumber and sliced pears to the same bowl. -
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, tarragon leaves, salt, and a pinch of red chili powder (if using). Adjust the seasoning with more salt if necessary. -
Assemble the Salad:
Pour the prepared dressing over the lettuce, cucumber, and pear mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients in the dressing. Be careful not to break up the pear slices. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if desired. -
Finish the Salad:
Add the toasted walnuts to the salad and give it a final toss to mix everything together. -
Serve:
Serve the Pear and Walnut Salad immediately after tossing in the dressing. This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If left to sit, the lettuce may wilt, and the walnuts may lose their crunch.
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- If you want to add more crunch, you can substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds.
- This salad pairs beautifully with a light sandwich, such as the Spinach and Soya Sub.
Enjoy this crisp and refreshing Pear and Walnut Salad as a healthy appetizer or a side dish for your next meal!
