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As the weather cools and the leaves turn golden, there’s nothing like a hearty salad to keep things bright and exciting. Enter our Maple-Kissed Pear & Pecans Winter Salad—a simple yet stunning dish that celebrates crisp pears, tangy greens, and warm flavors perfect for cozy fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 firm yet ripe pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your favorite blend)
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta for extra tang)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Begin by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Season with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper, adjusting the flavors to your liking. This dressing layers sweetness, tanginess, and just the right touch of spice.
Next, arrange your washed and dried mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Toss them lightly with half of the dressing to ensure a subtle and even coat on the leaves. Distribute the sliced pears over the greens, and sprinkle the toasted pecans on top for a crunchy texture. Gently crumble the goat cheese (or feta) over everything for added creaminess.
Drizzle the remaining dressing over the pears, pecans, and cheese. Give your salad a gentle toss, mixing each component so every bite bursts with sweet pears, earthy toasted nuts, and tangy cheese.
This Maple-Kissed Pear & Pecans Winter Salad is wonderfully versatile and made to be shared. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a lightly sweet, savory, and satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down—yet still provides comforting fall flavors. You can swap goat cheese for blue cheese if you want extra sharpness, or opt for candied walnuts instead of pecans to sweeten things up. It’s an ideal go-to for those looking for a wholesome, quick salad that embraces autumn’s bounty in every delicious forkful.
