Name: Warm Pear, Cranberry & Blue Cheese Salad with Walnuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 5 cups baby spinach or mixed greens; 2 pieces ripe pears, thinly sliced (Choose pears that are ripe but not overly soft.); 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted (You can substitute walnuts with pecans for a sweeter flavor.); 1/2 cup blue cheese or feta, crumbled (Feta can be used for a milder taste.); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar; 1 pinch sea salt; 1 pinch black pepper; Extra cranberries (For added sweetness.); Cracked black pepper (Optional for garnish.)

Warm, comforting, and vibrant—this Warm Pear, Cranberry & Blue Cheese Salad with Walnuts sings with flavor and is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The combination of sweet, caramelized pears with tangy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts creates a decadent but easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive holiday gathering. Inspired by seasonal ingredients, this salad embodies the essence of autumn, making it an irresistible option when you’re craving something fresh yet satisfying.

Why this dish is a must-try

You might be wondering why you should whip up this particular salad, and the reasons are plenty. For starters, it’s an effortless recipe that packs a punch in terms of flavor and texture without taking much time—ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The balance of sweetness from the pears and cranberries alongside the richness of blue cheese brings comfort, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch that elevates the dish.

"This salad is now a staple in my home! The combination of warm and cold ingredients is just perfect, and it feels special without being complicated. Highly recommended!" — Jane D.

How this salad comes together

Making this salad is a delightful journey that highlights the wonderful transformations of simple ingredients. You’ll start by toasting walnuts for added depth, then caramelize the pears in the same pan—infusing them with earthy flavor. Finally, you’ll assemble everything atop vibrant greens and drizzle it with a homemade glaze that ties the flavors together perfectly. Follow these clear steps for effortless execution.

What you’ll need

Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you need to create this beautiful salad:

5 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
1/2 cup blue cheese or feta, crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
Pinch sea salt
Pinch black pepper
Extra cranberries (optional)
Cracked black pepper (optional)

Consider swapping feta for blue cheese if you’re looking for a milder taste, or add in some sliced apples for extra crunch!

Step-by-step instructions

Toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until they are fragrant. Set them aside.
In the same pan, drizzle in the olive oil and add the pear slices. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they are lightly caramelized but still tender.
Pour in the honey and lemon juice. Warm for an additional 30 seconds, gently coating the pears before removing them from heat.
Arrange the greens on a serving plate. Top them with the warm pears and cranberries.
Sprinkle the salad with crumbled blue cheese and your toasted nuts. Drizzle any remaining warm glaze from the pan over the salad for that final touch.
Serve immediately while the pears are warm, allowing the cheese to soften slightly.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Warm Pear, Cranberry & Blue Cheese Salad is fantastic on its own, but here are some great ideas for serving it:

Pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal.
Offer it as a starter at your next dinner party, maybe alongside some artisan bread and a glass of Chardonnay.
Add a splash of balsamic reduction to enhance the flavors further.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have any leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly to enjoy later. Here’s how:

Place any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
To maintain freshness, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Extra advice

Here are some handy tips for making sure your salad turns out perfectly every time:

Ensure your pan is sufficiently heated when toasting the nuts to maximize flavor.
Choose pears that are ripe but not overly soft to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
Serve the salad immediately after preparation to experience the delightful contrast of warm pears and cold greens.

Creative twists

Feel free to experiment with your salad! Here are some delicious variations you can try:

Swap out blue cheese for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Use pecans instead of walnuts for a sweeter, buttery flavor.
Add thinly sliced red onions or a handful of arugula for an extra peppery kick.

Warm Pear, Cranberry & Blue Cheese Salad with Walnuts

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

Preparation for this salad takes about 15-20 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick meal.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

While fresh cranberries can be used, they are tart and may require additional sweeteners to balance flavors. Dried cranberries offer a much sweeter profile immediately.

Is there a good way to store leftovers?

Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge, ideally consumed within 2 days for the best experience. Avoid tossing them with dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the greens crisp.

By incorporating this Warm Pear, Cranberry & Blue Cheese Salad with Walnuts into your recipe rotation, you’re sure to impress friends and family with a dish that feels both fresh and luxurious. Enjoy!