Gourmet Pear and Gorgonzola Salad Recipe
Pear & Gorgonzola Salad 🍐🧀
Overview:
This delightful Pear & Gorgonzola Salad is a delightful blend of sweet pears, tangy gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together with a zesty homemade vinaigrette. It’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a refreshing snack. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring just 25 minutes of your time!
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Walnut halves | 1 cup |
| Pears | 4-6 |
| Gorgonzola cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 2 pinches |
| Dijon mustard | 1/4 cup |
| Shallots | 1/4 cup |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mixed greens | 1/2 lb |
| Olive oil | 3/4 cup |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 742.7
- Fat: 68g
- Saturated Fat: 12.7g
- Cholesterol: 21.3mg
- Sodium: 720.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 27.6g
- Fiber: 6.5g
- Sugar: 15.1g
- Protein: 12.1g
Instructions:
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Prepare Vinaigrette:
- In a blender or food processor, combine red wine vinegar, salt, and Dijon mustard.
- While the processor is running, slowly pour in the olive oil until an emulsion forms.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add finely chopped shallots and pepper to the vinaigrette.
- This vinaigrette is best made fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
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-
Assemble Salad:
- Toss the mixed greens with most of the prepared vinaigrette until well coated.
- Divide the dressed greens among 4 plates.
- Slice the pears thinly and arrange them on top of the greens.
- Crumble the gorgonzola cheese over the salads for a deliciously tangy kick.
- Coarsely chop the walnuts and sprinkle them generously over each salad.
- Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the top of each salad for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pear & Gorgonzola Salad is best enjoyed fresh, served immediately after assembling. Pair it with a crusty baguette or some grilled chicken for a more substantial meal. It’s also a fantastic starter for a dinner party or a light and elegant addition to any lunch spread. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
Tips:
- Choose ripe but firm pears for the best flavor and texture.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad for an extra nutty flavor.
- If you don’t have gorgonzola cheese, you can substitute with blue cheese or feta for a similar taste profile.
- Feel free to customize the vinaigrette by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of freshness.
Dietary Considerations:
This Pear & Gorgonzola Salad is suitable for vegetarians. It’s also gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative. Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats from the walnuts and olive oil, making it a nutritious choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and wholesome meal option.
