Description
A refreshing and vibrant Winter Salad combining mixed greens, sweet pears, crunchy pecans, and tart dried cranberries, all tossed in a tangy white wine vinaigrette and topped with creamy crumbled blue cheese. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal or a festive side dish during colder months.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 10 ounces Mixed greens
- 3 Pears, chopped
- 2 cups Pecan halves
- 1 cup Dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup Blue cheese, crumbled
Vinaigrette Dressing
- 6 tablespoons White wine vinegar (Champagne vinegar recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup Olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chopped pears, dried cranberries, and pecan halves. Toss gently to mix the fresh ingredients evenly.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and optional sugar until well emulsified and smooth.
- Toss the Salad with Dressing: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the large bowl and toss thoroughly so every bite is coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Add the Cheese: Finally, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese evenly over the top of the dressed salad just before serving to add creamy richness and balance the sweet and tangy flavors.
Notes
- Champagne vinegar lends a delicate flavor; alternatively, white wine vinegar works well.
- Adjust sugar in the dressing to balance the tartness to your preference.
- Toasted pecans can add extra crunch and deepen flavor if desired.
- For a vegan version, omit blue cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as greens can wilt if dressed too early.
