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When fall arrives with its cooler breezes and turning leaves, it’s the perfect time to welcome seasonal produce into your meals. Pears especially shine this time of year, adding both sweetness and warmth to dishes. This Hearty Cinnamon-Dusted Pear & Walnut Salad combines crisp greens, juicy pears, toasted walnuts, and gentle spices, creating an irresistible blend of flavors that capture autumn in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or your favorite blend)
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by gently tossing the pear slices with the ground cinnamon and nutmeg in a small bowl. This light dusting of spices coaxes out the pears’ natural sweetness and adds a cozy, autumnal aroma. Next, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5 to 6 minutes, just until they smell wonderfully fragrant. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn.
While the walnuts cool, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper in a separate bowl to create a balanced dressing. In a large salad bowl, arrange the mixed greens, then scatter the spiced pear slices on top. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts over the salad, taking a moment to appreciate the delightful crunch they’ll add.
Finally, drizzle the dressing over everything, and toss gently so each bite is coated with the tangy-sweet blend. Feel free to top your salad with a bit of goat cheese or shaved Parmesan for an extra touch of creaminess, though it’s equally delicious without any cheese at all.
This salad is a fantastic way to highlight fresh pears and warming spices when the weather begins to cool. It’s a winner for anyone seeking a lighter yet flavorful option in the fall or looking for a quick, wholesome lunch. If you’d prefer to skip dairy, the recipe easily adapts—just omit any cheese, or choose a dairy-free alternative. You can also swap in pecans instead of walnuts for a slightly different twist. However you serve it, the balance of spices, sweetness, and crunchy texture will keep you coming back for more, making this salad a go-to dish in your autumn recipe rotation.
