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Refreshing Spinach Pear Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette

A vibrant pear salad featuring spinach, sliced pears, blue cheese crumbles, and pecans drizzled with dressing.
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Create a refreshing pear salad featuring crisp spinach, sweet pears, goat cheese, and candied pecans. This recipe includes a simple, flavorful maple balsamic vinaigrette, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
  • 2 ripe but firm pears (like Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup candied pecans
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • For the Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette:
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuously whisking until the dressing emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Toast the pecans if they are not already candied: Spread pecans on a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Remove from heat immediately.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced pears, dried cranberries (if using), and candied pecans.
  4. Dress the salad: Drizzle about half of the vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to coat everything lightly. Add more dressing as needed, but avoid over-dressing.
  5. Serve immediately: Divide the salad among plates and top each serving with crumbled goat cheese.

Notes

  • For a different flavor profile, substitute walnuts for pecans or use feta cheese instead of goat cheese.
  • If you need a quick 15-minute salad, ensure your pecans are pre-candied.
  • This salad pairs well with a simple grilled chicken breast for a more substantial dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/pear-salad-spinach-pecan-goat-cheese-recipe/