As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves turn golden, I find myself craving the warmth of hearty flavors. One afternoon, while dreaming up a perfect fall dish, I discovered a delightful combination that captures the essence of the season: the Smoky Seared Pear and Blue Cheese Salad. Imagine biting into tender, caramelized pears, their sweetness beautifully balanced by the creamy tang of blue cheese. The surprise crunch of candied pumpkin seeds adds a delightful twist, bringing both sweetness and nutrition to the table.
This salad is not only an attention-grabbing side for holiday gatherings, but it’s also a versatile dish that can transform into a satisfying dinner with the addition of grilled chicken or crispy bacon. With its ease of preparation and unique blend of flavors, this pear salad is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Join me as we indulge in the cozy comfort of autumn with every nourishing bite!
Why is this Pear Salad a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: The smoky seared pears combined with creamy blue cheese create a taste sensation that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, this salad appeals to both traditional and adventurous palates.
Simplicity: Easy to prepare with just a few key ingredients, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a side or elevate it to a main dish by adding protein like grilled chicken or crispy bacon.
Make-ahead dressing: The vinaigrette can be prepared in advance, saving time and ensuring flavors meld beautifully.
Pear Salad Ingredients
For the Dressing
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Provides flavor and richness; avocado oil is a great substitute if desired.
• Apple cider vinegar or sherry vinegar (3 Tbsp, divided) – Balances acidity; red wine vinegar works well too.
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall taste; feel free to adjust with regular salt.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds warmth and depth to the vinaigrette.
• Honey (4 tsp) – Sweetens the dressing beautifully; maple syrup can be used as an alternative.
For the Salad
• Bartlett pears (2 medium) – Their sweetness shines when seared; choose ripe but firm pears for the best results.
• Frisée lettuce (9 oz.) or romaine hearts (2 medium) – Provides a fresh base, adding volume and crunch.
• Crumbled blue cheese (2/3 cup) – Offers a creamy, tangy flavor; crumbled feta or ricotta salata can be good substitutes.
• Candied pumpkin seeds (1/2 cup) – Add crunch and nutrition; sunflower seeds can be used for a different twist.
For the Candied Pumpkin Seeds
• Granulated sugar (2 Tbsp) – Used to coat the pumpkin seeds, creating a sweet crunch.
• Shelled pumpkin seeds – The stars of your salad topping, providing nutrition and texture; can be swapped with sunflower seeds.
How to Make Pear Salad
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tsp honey, 3 Tbsp vinegar, salt, and pepper. Gradually incorporate 5 Tbsp of olive oil until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
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Candy the Pumpkin Seeds: In a skillet over medium heat, sprinkle 2 Tbsp sugar with the pumpkin seeds. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and coats the seeds, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer them onto parchment paper to cool completely.
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Sear the Pears: Using the same skillet, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add quartered pears and sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and tender but still holding their shape.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss frisée or romaine with the dressing, ensuring every leaf is coated. Gently fold in the seared pears, candied pumpkin seeds, and crumbled blue cheese until evenly combined.
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Serve and Enjoy: Plate your delightful pear salad and serve it fresh as a beautiful side dish or light main course, ideal for any fall gathering.
Optional: Add grilled chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pear Salad
Fridge: Keep leftover pear salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its freshness, although the dressing may soften the greens slightly.
Dressing: The vinaigrette can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before use to ensure it’s properly emulsified.
Candied Pumpkin Seeds: Store these crunchy toppings at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks to keep them crisp and delicious.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad, as the texture of the fresh ingredients like pears and greens will suffer. However, you can freeze the dressing if needed, using ice cube trays for individual servings.
What to Serve with Smoky Seared Pear and Blue Cheese Salad?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance the flavors of this seasonal favorite.
- Roasted Chicken: The savory depth of roasted chicken complements the salad’s sweetness, making for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light and nutty quinoa pilaf adds a wholesome grain element, presenting a hearty, healthy contrast to the crisp salad.
- Crusty Baguette: Fresh, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the honey vinaigrette, balancing the rich flavors of blue cheese and pears.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm, spiced pumpkin soup creates a cozy fall meal, harmonizing beautifully with the salad’s smokiness and creaminess.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing, bubbly drink enhances the fall vibes and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the salad’s sweet and tangy elements.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, such as gouda and aged cheddar, offers a delightful grazing experience, complementing the salad’s richness.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds a festive touch, enhancing the sweet elements of the pears and providing a vibrant burst of flavor.
- Chocolate Tart: End the meal with a rich chocolate tart, creating a decadent dessert that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s refreshing notes.
Make Ahead Options
These Smoky Seared Pear and Blue Cheese Salad ingredients are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dressing and candied pumpkin seeds up to one week in advance; simply store the dressing in the refrigerator and keep the cooled seeds in an airtight container at room temperature. For the pears, it’s best to sear them close to serving time to maintain their texture, but if needed, you can sear them up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to use. When you’re ready to serve, toss the greens with the dressing, add the pears, candied pumpkin seeds, and blue cheese, and you’ll have a stunning salad that’s just as delicious as it is convenient!
Pear Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Pear Salad to make it uniquely yours!
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Feta Substitute: Swap blue cheese for crumbled feta for a lighter, tangy flavor that complements the pears beautifully.
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Leafy Greens Mix: Combine frisée with arugula or spinach for added peppery notes and texture diversity that takes your salad to new heights.
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Grilled Chicken Addition: Add grilled chicken slices for a heartier meal; the smoky flavor harmonizes perfectly with the salad’s sweet elements.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to introduce a gentle heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet pears.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pecans in place of pumpkin seeds for a rich and buttery crunch that elevates the dish.
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Balsamic Drizzle: Finish the salad with a drizzle of balsamic reduction to enhance the sweet and savory balance with a touch of elegance.
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Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or figs for bursts of sweetness that complement the pears, adding both flavor and festive flair.
Expert Tips for Pear Salad
- Choose the Right Pears: Ripe but firm Bartlett pears work best for optimal sweetness and texture without falling apart when seared.
- Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow each pear side to sear for 3-4 minutes; rushing may cause them to become mushy rather than perfectly tender.
- Perfecting the Vinaigrette: Emulsifying the dressing slowly by whisking in olive oil ensures a creamy and well-blended consistency.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dressing and candied seeds up to a week ahead; store them separately for optimal freshness when assembling your pear salad.
- Adding Protein: For a hearty main course, consider adding grilled chicken or crispy bacon, enhancing the flavor and protein content of your salad.
Pear Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of pears should I use for this salad?
I recommend ripe but firm Bartlett pears for this pear salad. Look for pears that are slightly soft to the touch but still hold their shape, as they become beautifully caramelized when seared.
How should I store leftover pear salad?
Store any leftover pear salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be aware that the dressing may cause the greens to soften slightly over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the vinaigrette up to a week in advance. Just keep it in a sealed container in the fridge, and remember to shake it well before each use to ensure it’s properly mixed.
How do I freeze the ingredients for this pear salad?
While I don’t recommend freezing the assembled pear salad due to the texture of fresh ingredients, you can freeze the dressing. Simply pour the vinaigrette into ice cube trays and freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Can my pet eat the ingredients in this salad?
It’s essential to note that blue cheese and certain nuts are not safe for pets. While pears are safe in moderation, avoid giving them any salad with blue cheese, which can be harmful to dogs and cats.
What should I do if my seared pears are mushy?
If your seared pears end up mushy, it might be due to overcooking. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side on medium heat, adjusting your cooking time to ensure they become tender without losing their shape. If they’re already mushy, consider using them in a smoothie or blended into a sauce.
Irresistible Pear Salad with Blue Cheese and Crunchy Seeds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tsp honey, 3 Tbsp vinegar, salt, and pepper. Gradually incorporate 5 Tbsp of olive oil until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
- Candy the Pumpkin Seeds: In a skillet over medium heat, sprinkle 2 Tbsp sugar with the pumpkin seeds. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and coats the seeds, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer them onto parchment paper to cool completely.
- Sear the Pears: Using the same skillet, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add quartered pears and sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and tender but still holding their shape.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss frisée or romaine with the dressing, ensuring every leaf is coated. Gently fold in the seared pears, candied pumpkin seeds, and crumbled blue cheese until evenly combined.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate your delightful pear salad and serve it fresh as a beautiful side dish or light main course, ideal for any fall gathering.