There is something truly magical about the Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe. It perfectly captures the cozy, crisp spirit of the colder months with its vibrant mix of fresh greens, juicy pears, crunchy toasted pecans, and tart cranberries. This salad not only bursts with flavor and texture but also brings a beautiful splash of color to any table. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing lunch, a stunning side dish, or a light dinner, this recipe delivers on all counts with simplicity and style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this salad serves a special purpose, combining to create a balance of flavors and textures that make this Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe so irresistible. From the crisp greens to the sweet-tart cranberries, everything blends harmoniously in every bite.
- Mixed greens (4 cups): A fresh blend of spinach, arugula, and kale provides a variety of textures and earthy flavors.
- Pears (2 ripe): Thinly sliced to add sweet juiciness and a delicate crunch that complements the nuts.
- Toasted pecans (1 cup): Toasting intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Dried cranberries (1/4 cup): Their tartness brightens the salad and adds a lovely pop of color.
- Red onion (1/4, thinly sliced): A sharp, slightly sweet note that balances the salad.
- Balsamic vinaigrette (1/3 cup): The perfect tangy dressing that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
How to Make Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the greens
Begin by washing and drying the mixed greens thoroughly. This step is crucial to ensure your salad isn’t soggy and every bite stays crisp and refreshing. Using a salad spinner or laying the greens out on paper towels works perfectly.
Step 2: Slice the pears
Next, thinly slice your ripe pears. The key is to get them thin enough to blend seamlessly with the greens, yet still keep their lovely texture. Set these aside; they will provide a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Toast the pecans
Heat a dry skillet over medium and toast the pecans for about five minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly darker in color. This step brings out their rich, nutty flavor and adds a wonderful crunch to the salad. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 4: Combine all ingredients
In a large bowl, gently toss together the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Combining everything allows the flavors to mingle even before dressing is added.
Step 5: Dress and toss
Finally, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss gently. This prevents the greens from wilting while ensuring every bite is lightly coated with the tangy dressing that ties all the elements together.
How to Serve Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe
Garnishes
Adding some fresh garnishes can elevate this salad even more. Consider sprinkling some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary leaves to enhance those winter flavors. A quick twist of black pepper or a sprinkle of sea salt over the top can also highlight the different notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with cozy main dishes such as roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a hearty grain bowl. Its bright, fresh flavors provide the perfect balance to richer meals, making it a fantastic side dish on chilly evenings or festive holiday tables.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving the Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe in individual glass bowls or on elegant salad plates. Layering the ingredients slightly instead of tossing can create a stunning visual display. You can also sketch a drizzle of extra balsamic glaze around the edges of the plate for a professional touch that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent soggy greens. When ready to enjoy again, toss everything together fresh. Stored this way, the salad can stay crisp for up to two days.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. The texture of the greens and pears will not hold up well to freezing and thawing, which can lead to a mushy result and loss of flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is unnecessary and not advised. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge if prepared ahead of time, or make a fresh batch to keep those bright winter flavors alive.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or sliced almonds make excellent substitutes and will add their own unique crunch and flavor to the salad.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinaigrette?
You can easily make your own by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a touch of honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This homemade dressing works beautifully with the salad’s ingredients.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
You can prepare all the ingredients separately but wait to toss them together with the dressing right before serving to maintain the salad’s crisp texture and vibrant flavors.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes! As long as you use a vegan balsamic vinaigrette or make your own without honey, this Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe is naturally vegan.
How do I keep the pears from browning?
Squeezing a little lemon juice over the sliced pears before adding them to the salad helps prevent oxidation and keeps them looking fresh and appetizing.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the charm of this Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe to brighten up your winter meals. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and offers a splendid combination of textures and flavors that feel indulgent yet wholesome. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how perfect it feels on a chilly evening or as a festive addition to any meal.
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Winter Salad with Pears, Pecans, and Cranberries Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing winter salad featuring a delightful combination of mixed greens, juicy pears, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and red onions, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal or a festive side dish.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
- 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash Greens: Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to ensure no excess water remains, which helps the dressing adhere better.
- Slice Pears: Thinly slice the ripe pears and set them aside carefully to maintain their shape and freshness for the salad assembly.
- Toast Pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pecans for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, mix the prepared mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Add Dressing and Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to coat all ingredients with the dressing without bruising the delicate leaves and fruit.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm pears to avoid them becoming mushy in the salad.
- To enhance the flavor, you can substitute balsamic vinaigrette with a maple mustard dressing.
- For a vegan version, ensure the balsamic vinaigrette contains no honey or animal-derived ingredients.
- Toast pecans carefully to avoid burning, as it can cause bitterness.
- This salad is best served fresh to prevent the greens from wilting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
