If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing way to brighten up those chilly months, this Winter Salad with Pears and Pecans Recipe is an absolute gem. It perfectly balances crisp, fresh greens with the subtle sweetness of ripe pears, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the tang of dried cranberries—each ingredient playing its part to create a symphony of flavors and textures that feels both nourishing and indulgently festive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but truly essential, each bringing a unique flavor or texture that makes the salad stand out. From the fresh, peppery greens to the crunchy pecans and juicy pears, every component contributes to a beautiful balance that makes this salad so irresistible.
- 4 cups mixed greens: A fresh base of spinach, arugula, and kale brings color, nutrients, and a lovely variety of flavors, from mild to peppery.
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced: Sweet and juicy, the pears add a soft contrast to the salad’s crunchiness.
- 1 cup toasted pecans: Toasted pecans give a warm, nutty crunch that adds depth and texture with every bite.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries: Their tartness beautifully offsets the sweetness of the pears, brightening the overall flavor.
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced: The mild sharpness of red onion adds a subtle zing and a touch of color.
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette: This dressing ties everything together with its tangy-sweet notes, enhancing and complementing all the ingredients.
How to Make Winter Salad with Pears and Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Greens
Start by washing your mixed greens thoroughly. It’s essential to dry them well to prevent a soggy salad. This crisp foundation keeps the salad fresh and lively, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Slice the Pears
Next, thinly slice your ripe pears. Thin slices allow the pear’s natural sweetness and softness to meld seamlessly with the crunchy elements without overwhelming the salad.
Step 3: Toast the Pecans
Toast your pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about five minutes. The toasting unlocks an irresistible nutty aroma and enhances their crunch, which will give your salad that extra wow factor.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss them to mix, allowing all the beautiful flavors and textures to start mingling.
Step 5: Dress and Toss
Just before serving, drizzle the 1/3 cup of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently to evenly coat everything without bruising the delicate pears or greens. This final step ensures every bite is flavorful and balanced.
How to Serve Winter Salad with Pears and Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle some crumbled goat cheese or feta on top. A few whole pecans and thin pear slices as a finishing garnish also add a beautiful, inviting look.
Side Dishes
This winter salad pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty bowl of butternut squash soup. Its light but flavorful nature complements richer mains without overwhelming them.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual portions in clear glass bowls or on rustic wooden boards for a charming presentation. For a festive occasion, toss in some pomegranate seeds to add pops of color and a juicy burst with each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To avoid sogginess, keep the dressing separate and toss it in only when you are ready to eat the salad again.
Freezing
Due to the fresh greens and fruit, freezing this salad is not recommended as it will compromise texture and flavor. Pecans and dressing can be frozen separately if needed, but fresh is always best here.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold. If you want to warm any leftovers, consider removing the greens and fruit and heating just the pecans or serving alongside a warm dish instead.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pears with another fruit?
Absolutely! Apples or persimmons work beautifully in this salad, offering a similar sweetness and crispness that pairs well with the pecans and greens.
What can I use if I don’t have pecans?
Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes, providing a similar crunch and a slight nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, the salad is vegan as is. Just be sure your balsamic vinaigrette doesn’t contain any honey or dairy. You can easily make a simple vegan vinaigrette at home if preferred.
Can I make the dressing from scratch?
Definitely! A classic balsamic vinaigrette is easy to make using balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup or honey, salt, and pepper. It tastes even better fresh.
How long does the salad stay fresh once dressed?
Once tossed with dressing, the salad is best eaten within a couple of hours to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors. Beyond that, the greens may start to wilt.
Final Thoughts
This Winter Salad with Pears and Pecans Recipe truly brings the spirit of the season to your table in the most delicious way. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout, whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or an elegant side dish. Give it a try—you’ll soon discover it’s a winter favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Winter Salad with Pears and Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant winter salad featuring mixed greens, sweet pears, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This quick and easy salad is perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare the greens: Wash and dry mixed greens thoroughly to ensure they are crisp and free of excess moisture.
- Slice the pears: Thinly slice the ripe pears and set them aside to maintain their freshness.
- Toast the pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pecans for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and slightly browned.
- Combine the salad: In a large bowl, mix together the washed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add the dressing and toss: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and gently toss to evenly coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate greens.
Notes
- To toast pecans evenly, keep stirring them frequently and watch closely to prevent burning.
- You can substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different flavor profile.
- Use fresh pears that are just ripe for the best texture and sweetness.
- For a vegan option, ensure the balsamic vinaigrette contains no honey or animal-derived ingredients.
- This salad is best served immediately after dressing to keep greens crisp.
