Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing
Introduction
Are you looking for a fresh and tasty salad that’s easy to make? The Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint, and Honey Dressing is just what you need! This delightful combination of sweet pears, salty halloumi cheese, crunchy walnuts, and refreshing mint makes a perfect dish for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Ripe pears add sweetness, while halloumi offers a unique savory flavor. Combined with the crunch of walnuts and the freshness of mint, this dish is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a side at a gathering. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days.
How to Make Pear & Halloumi Salad with Walnuts, Mint & Honey Dressing
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 6 oz (170 g) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
- 1/3 cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, torn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling halloumi)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Grill the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden and crisp. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl or serving platter, arrange the mixed greens, sliced pears, grilled halloumi, walnuts, and mint.
- Drizzle the honey dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Serve immediately while the halloumi is still warm.
How to Serve Pear & Halloumi Salad
This salad can be enjoyed as a main dish or a vibrant side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, or you can serve it alongside crusty bread for a fulfilling meal. The warm halloumi adds a nice touch, so try to serve it right after grilling.
How to Store Pear & Halloumi Salad
If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it again. The salad is best eaten fresh, but you can store it for up to a day.
Tips to Make Pear & Halloumi Salad
- Use ripe pears for a sweet flavor.
- Feel free to change the greens; you can use any mix you like.
- To save time, prepare the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it.
- For extra flavor, you can include other nuts or seeds.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding other ingredients like sliced apples, dried cranberries, or even grilled chicken for more protein.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve. This helps maintain freshness.
2. Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
Yes, halloumi cheese is made from sheep’s or cow’s milk, and it does not contain rennet, making it suitable for vegetarians.
3. What can I substitute for halloumi?
If you can’t find halloumi, you can use grilled feta cheese or any other firm cheese that can be grilled.
Enjoy this delicious and refreshing Pear & Halloumi Salad for a delightful meal that’s both simple and satisfying!
