Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Elegant, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, this Pear and Blue Cheese Salad—inspired by the Barefoot Contessa—is a gorgeous side dish that’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or a simple lunch. Sweet, ripe pears are paired with creamy blue cheese, crunchy candied walnuts, and crisp greens, then finished with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a classic balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp that’s sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Harmony – Sweet pears, sharp cheese, and a zesty dressing balance beautifully.
Stunning Presentation – Looks as good as it tastes.
Simple but Sophisticated – Fancy enough for entertaining, easy enough for every day.
Customizable – Swap the greens, cheese, or nuts to suit your preferences.
Quick & Easy – On the table in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 6 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
• 2 ripe pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort work beautifully)
• ½ cup candied walnuts or pecans
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
• Thinly sliced fennel
• Toasted baguette slices or croutons
• A squeeze of lemon over the pears to prevent browning

Tools You’ll Need

• Large salad bowl
• Small jar or whisk for dressing
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Tongs for tossing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

1. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and vinegar.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Shake or whisk until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. Wash and dry the greens thoroughly.
2. Slice the pears thinly (leave the peel on for color and texture).
3. If using, thinly slice the red onion.
4. Crumble the blue cheese and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl or platter, layer the mixed greens.
2. Top with pear slices, crumbled blue cheese, candied nuts, and red onions.
3. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving and toss gently to coat.
4. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

1. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
2. Pair with grilled chicken, roast turkey, or a warm baguette for a light meal.

Tips for the Best Pear and Blue Cheese Salad
Use Ripe Pears – They should be slightly soft but still hold their shape.
Chill Your Greens – Crisp greens make a big difference in texture.
Balance the Dressing – Taste before pouring—adjust honey or vinegar for your ideal tanginess.
Candied Nuts – Store-bought or homemade (just toss nuts with sugar and toast).
Serve Fresh – Dress right before serving to avoid soggy greens.

Serving Suggestions
Holiday Feast – A lovely contrast to rich Thanksgiving or Christmas mains.
Light Lunch – Add grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein.
Dinner Party Starter – Serve in individual bowls for an elegant touch.
Brunch Board – Pair with quiche, bread, and fruit for a spring or summer spread.

How to Store & Prep Ahead

Make Ahead Tips:

• Make the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge.
• Slice pears just before serving to avoid browning, or toss with lemon juice.
• Toast or candy the nuts ahead and store in an airtight container.

Storing Leftovers:

• Store undressed salad in a container for 1–2 days.
• Once dressed, eat within a few hours for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes! Goat cheese or feta make great alternatives if you’re not a fan of blue cheese.
2. Are canned pears okay?
   Fresh pears are preferred, but canned pears (in juice, not syrup) can work in a pinch—just pat them dry.
3. What greens work best?
   Arugula adds pepperiness, spring mix adds variety, and spinach gives a tender bite. Use what you like best.
4. How do I candy nuts at home?
   Toss nuts with a tablespoon of sugar and a bit of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir constantly until caramelized, then cool.
5. Is this gluten-free?
   Yes—just check that your Dijon mustard and vinegar are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts
Elegant and full of contrast, this Barefoot Contessa-inspired Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a timeless favorite that brings freshness and sophistication to the table. Sweet pears, tangy cheese, and crunchy nuts tossed in a simple vinaigrette—it’s a beautiful balance of flavors that never goes out of style.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your salad come to life.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 260 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 290mg

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