Ycaroh's Kitchen blog

Green Salad with Caramelized Pears, Walnuts, and Gorgonzola

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Servings

4

Yield

4 servings

Calories

Approximately 300 calories
This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining the sweet and slightly tangy taste of caramelized pears with the earthy crunch of walnuts and the rich, creamy sharpness of Gorgonzola cheese. Resting on a bed of fresh greens, each bite offers a burst of contrasting yet complementary flavors, making it a perfect starter or side dish that promises to elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Ideal for those who appreciate a gourmet touch in their meals, this salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, sure to impress both cooking novices and seasoned chefs alike.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of mixed greens, washed and dried
  • 2 ripe pears, sliced and cored
  • 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup of walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup of Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
  • For the dressing:
    • 1/4 cup of olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Comments: Opt for firm but ripe pears for the best texture after caramelizing.

Instructions

  • Begin by caramelizing the pears. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced pears and brown sugar, cooking until they are golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  • In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  • Add the caramelized pears, walnuts, and crumbled Gorgonzola to the greens. Gently toss to combine.
  • Serve immediately, ensuring a good mix of ingredients in each serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • Toast the walnuts before adding them to the salad for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
  • If Gorgonzola is too strong for your taste, try substituting it with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
  • The salad dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Shake well before dressing the salad.

Mise en Place

Ingredients

Utensils

  • Mixed greens
  • Ripe pears
  • Unsalted butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Walnuts
  • Gorgonzola cheese
  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper
  • Skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Salad tossers or spoons

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