Caramelized Pear & Blue Cheese Salad
This elegant salad features caramelized pears, creamy blue cheese, and peppery greens, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
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Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 pieces Ripe pears, sliced into thin wedges Choose Bartlett or Bosc for sweetness and firmness.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Room temperature or slightly softened.
- 1 tablespoon Honey or brown sugar Use honey for a floral note, brown sugar for deeper caramel.
- 6 cups Mixed greens Washed and spun dry (arugula, baby spinach, or romaine).
- 1/2 cup Crumbled blue cheese Gorgonzola or your preferred variety.
- 1/4 cup Toasted walnuts or candied pecans Optional topping.
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic glaze Optional topping.
- Freshly ground black pepper To taste.
Instructions
- Start by slicing your ripe pears into thin wedges. Remove cores and slice evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams and bubbles gently but does not brown.
- Add the sliced pears to the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, letting them soften and develop a light golden color on the cut side. Avoid stirring constantly so they can caramelize.
- Drizzle the honey or sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the pears, then gently stir to coat. Continue cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, flipping the pears once, until they are caramelized and glossy but still hold their shape. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine your mixed greens and, if using, a light drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt for balance. Toss gently.
- Top the greens with the warm caramelized pears and scatter the crumbled blue cheese over the top. Add toasted nuts if desired for crunch.
- Gently toss everything together just before serving so the warm pears slightly wilt the greens and the blue cheese softens into little pockets of flavor. Serve immediately for best contrast of textures.
Notes
Store leftover components separately when possible. Keep caramelized pears in an airtight container for up to 3 days; greens will last 1-2 days once dressed.