Pear Salad Recipe Candied Pecan And Ruby Cranberry

I just love how this pear salad recipe with candied pecans and ruby cranberries brings such a vibrant burst of flavor to any meal, truly brightening the table. Its crisp pears, sweet pecans, and tangy cranberries create a delightful symphony of textures and tastes, making it a perfect easy dinner idea for family gatherings or even a quick, healthy lunch. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping side, ensuring success for beginner cooks and delivering a dish that’s both elegant and effortlessly delicious.

Ingredients for Your Perfect Pear Salad Recipe

Crafting this simple yet elegant pear salad recipe starts with fresh, quality components. Here’s what you’ll need to bring together a delicious dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

• Fresh Pears: 2-3 medium (e.g., Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett), firm but ripe, for their crisp, sweet, and juicy base.
• Mixed Greens: 5 oz (140g) bag, like spring mix or baby spinach, providing a vibrant, healthy foundation. (I always choose organic ingredients when I can.)
• Candied Pecans: 1/2 cup (60g), store-bought or homemade, for irresistible sweet crunch. (Swap with toasted walnuts or almonds if that’s what you have.)
• Dried Ruby Cranberries: 1/3 cup (40g), for tangy bursts of color and flavor.
• Feta Cheese (Crumbled): 1/4 cup (28g), for a salty, creamy contrast. (Goat cheese or a plant-based alternative also works wonderfully.)
• Simple Vinaigrette:
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar, for bright zest
• 1 tsp (5ml) Dijon mustard, for emulsification
• 1 Tbsp (15ml) maple syrup (or honey), for a touch of sweetness
• 1/4 tsp salt & 1/8 tsp black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins & Swaps for Your Pear Salad: Add grilled chicken or salmon for a main course, boosting its protein. Try different greens like arugula for a peppery kick. For a gluten-free dressing, ensure all ingredients are certified. Peak pear season is late summer to winter; choose firm, unblemished fruit for the best pear salad.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions for This Easy Pear Salad

This easy pear salad recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple steps. You’ll be enjoying fresh, vibrant flavors in no time!

1. Prepare Candied Pecans: If making from scratch, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly toast 1/2 cup (60g) pecans on a sheet pan for 5 minutes until fragrant. Coat them in 1 Tbsp maple syrup and a pinch of salt, then bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown and caramelized. Let them cool completely on parchment paper until hard and crunchy.
2. Wash and Dry Greens: Gently wash 5 oz (140g) mixed greens under cool water, then spin them in a salad spinner until completely dry and crisp to the touch. This ensures your pear salad isn’t watery.
3. Slice Pears: Core 2-3 fresh pears and thinly slice them, aiming for about 1/4-inch consistent pieces, just before assembling. This keeps them from browning. If pears start to brown while you’re prepping other components, toss them gently with a teaspoon of lemon juice to keep them looking fresh. I often do this little trick.
4. Whisk Vinaigrette: In a small jar, combine 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, 2 Tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp (5ml) Dijon mustard, 1 Tbsp (15ml) maple syrup, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Seal and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the dry mixed greens, thinly sliced pears, and 1/3 cup (40g) ruby cranberries.
6. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss with salad tongs until the greens are lightly coated and vibrant, then top with the crunchy candied pecans. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. For a low-carb pear salad, reduce cranberries or use erythritol in your candied pecans.

Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips for Your Pear Salad

This delightful pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into many different occasions. It’s a fantastic choice for boosting your family dinners with fresh flavor or as a quick, healthy side on busy weeknights. The convenience of this pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry makes it a fantastic addition to any meal rotation.

• Situations: Family dinners, weeknights (great for easy healthy dinner ideas), holidays, school lunches (pack separately), potlucks. I often pack the components separately for my family’s work lunches, assembling just before eating to keep that delicious pear salad crunch.
• Serving Pairings: Grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, crusty bread, a light soup, or a crisp white wine.
• Storage and Reheating: Store undressed salad ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Dress right before serving. Candied pecans keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week. This particular salad isn’t suitable for freezing once assembled.

Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of this Pear Salad Recipe

This pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry offers incredible taste and a powerhouse of nutrition, supporting various lifestyle needs for healthy eating.

• Connect to Diet and Lifestyle Needs: High fiber from pears and greens aids weight management. Easily boosted with grilled chicken or nuts for high-protein snacks. Naturally gluten-free (ensure dressing compliance). Pears and ruby cranberries provide beneficial antioxidants. This healthy salad can be a great low-carb option with minor adjustments.
• Energy, Balance, & Nourishment: Provides sustained energy from healthy fats and complex carbs. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals for overall wellness. A balanced meal option, especially with added protein, supporting digestive health with abundant fiber. It’s excellent for quick meal prep recipes and increasing fruit and vegetable intake in family dinners.

How This Pear Salad Recipe Matches Everyday Goals

This pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry perfectly aligns with the practical demands of modern home cooking, making healthy eating both simple and enjoyable.

• Link this dish to reader needs: Budget-friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients you likely have. Time-saving: Minimal hands-on time for quick assembly. Wellness: Packed with fresh produce and good-for-you ingredients.
• On Convenience, Nutrition, or Versatility: Ultimate convenience for busy families seeking easy healthy dinner ideas. Delivers significant nutrition without compromising on taste. Highly versatile—adjust ingredients to suit any palate or occasion. A simple way to elevate weeknight meals effortlessly.

Pro Tips and Adjustments with Your Pear Salad Recipe

Elevate your pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry with these simple refinements for maximum flavor and texture.

• Technique Refinements: Toast pecans before candying for deeper flavor. Chill dressing for at least 30 minutes for melded flavors. Use a salad spinner for perfectly dry greens. Gently toss the salad to avoid bruising greens.
• Seasoning and Spice Adjustments: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to your candied pecans. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes in the dressing for a kick. Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs can introduce an aromatic twist.
• Allergy-Friendly or Kid-Friendly Modifications: Nut-free: Omit pecans, use toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead. Dairy-free: Omit feta or use a plant-based vegan alternative. Kid-friendly: Serve dressing on the side, use milder greens, cut pears into fun shapes.

FAQs about Pear Salad with Candied Pecans and Ruby Cranberries

Here are some common questions about this delightful pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry.

Is pear salad good for weight loss?

Yes, this salad is packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a satisfying and healthy choice for weight management when portion-controlled and balanced. Its fresh ingredients support a healthy eating plan.

Can I use this pear salad recipe in meal prep plans?

Absolutely! Prepare ingredients like candied pecans and dressing ahead of time. Keep greens, pears, and other toppings separate and assemble just before serving for the freshest salad experience, perfect for quick meal prep recipes. I’ve found this pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry works perfectly for meal prep.

What kind of pears are best for pear salad?

Crisp varieties like Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett work beautifully in this salad. Choose pears that are firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent pears from browning in my pear salad?

Toss sliced pears lightly with a bit of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar immediately after cutting. This simple trick keeps your salad looking fresh and appealing for longer.

Can I make the candied pecans for this pear salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes, candied pecans can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I always make a double batch of candied pecans; they’re so good, my family snacks on them before they even hit the salad!

Is this pear salad recipe suitable for a potluck?

Definitely! It’s a beautiful, crowd-pleasing dish that travels well, especially if you pack the dressing and pecans separately to add just before serving this salad. It’s a reliable family-friendly option.

Conclusion

This pear salad recipe with candied pecans and ruby cranberries is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients create a truly memorable, nourishing, and easy family meal. Save this delicious pear salad recipe on Pinterest for your next healthy eating or quick meals inspiration!

pear salad recipe Candied Pecan and Ruby Cranberry

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• Author: Elina Mirkle
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This pear salad recipe features crisp pears, sweet candied pecans, and tangy cranberries over mixed greens, brightened with a simple homemade vinaigrette. It’s an easy, elegant side dish perfect for family meals or a quick, healthy lunch.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2–3 medium fresh pears (Anjou, Bosc, or Bartlett), firm but ripe
• 5 oz (140 g) mixed greens (spring mix or baby spinach)
• 0.5 cup (60 g) candied pecans
• 0.33 cup (40 g) dried ruby cranberries
• 0.25 cup (28 g) crumbled feta cheese
• 0.25 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp (5 ml) Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp (15 ml) maple syrup (or honey)
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.125 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare Candied Pecans: If making from scratch, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly toast 0.5 cup (60 g) pecans on a sheet pan for 5 minutes until fragrant. Coat them in 1 Tbsp maple syrup and a pinch of salt, then bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown and caramelized. Let them cool completely on parchment paper until hard and crunchy.
2. Wash and Dry Greens: Gently wash 5 oz (140 g) mixed greens under cool water, then spin them in a salad spinner until completely dry and crisp.
3. Slice Pears: Core 2-3 fresh pears and thinly slice them, aiming for about 0.25-inch consistent pieces, just before assembling. If pears start to brown while you’re prepping other components, toss them gently with a teaspoon of lemon juice to keep them looking fresh.
4. Whisk Vinaigrette: In a small jar, combine 0.25 cup (60 ml) olive oil, 2 Tbsp (30 ml) apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp (5 ml) Dijon mustard, 1 Tbsp (15 ml) maple syrup, 0.25 tsp salt, and 0.125 tsp black pepper. Seal and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the dry mixed greens, thinly sliced pears, and 0.33 cup (40 g) ruby cranberries.
6. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss with salad tongs until the greens are lightly coated and vibrant, then top with the crunchy candied pecans and crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

For a flavor variation, swap candied pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds. Goat cheese or a plant-based alternative can replace feta. For a gluten-free dressing, ensure all ingredients are certified. Store leftover dressing separately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad, Side Dish
• Method: Assembly
• Cuisine: General

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 180 g)
• Calories: 300 calories
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: pear salad, candied pecans, cranberries, feta cheese, healthy lunch, easy dinner, side dish, vinaigrette, fresh, quick salad