Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing is a refreshing and flavorful dish that brings together sweet, salty, and crunchy elements. This salad not only looks beautiful but also offers a mix of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you need a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad is a perfect choice!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and packed with healthy ingredients. The combination of ripe pears, crispy halloumi cheese, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful balance of taste. Plus, the honey dressing adds a touch of sweetness that ties everything together. It’s also a great way to enjoy seasonal fruits and greens, making it a fantastic meal for any day of the week.
How to Make Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the halloumi slices and fry for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove the halloumi and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp of olive oil, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, pear slices, fresh mint, and toasted walnuts.
- Top the salad with the warm halloumi and drizzle with the honey dressing.
- Toss gently and serve immediately.
How to Serve Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing
Serve this salad right after making it to enjoy the warm halloumi and the crispness of the greens. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light standalone meal. Add extra walnuts on top for added crunch or serve with a slice of crusty bread.
How to Store Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. The salad will stay fresh for about a day, but the greens may become wilted if left too long.
Tips to Make Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing
- Look for halloumi cheese that is firm and not too soft for the best frying results.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese to the salad.
Variation
For a different twist, you can replace the pears with apples or pomegranate seeds for added texture and flavor. You can also add other nuts like almonds or pecans for variation.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to serve this salad fresh. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and toss them together just before serving.
2. Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
Yes, halloumi cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is suitable for vegetarians.
3. Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! You can try a balsamic vinaigrette or a simple olive oil and lemon dressing if you prefer.
Enjoy your Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing! It’s sure to become a favorite.
