Description
A fresh and vibrant Winter Salad featuring a mix of tender greens, sweet pear slices, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This easy-to-make salad combines a variety of textures and flavors, perfect for a light, nutritious meal or a festive side dish during the colder months.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 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: Thoroughly wash and dry the mixed greens to remove any dirt or grit, ensuring a clean base for your salad.
- Slice Pears: Thinly slice the ripe pears and set them aside, preserving their freshness until 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 bowl, gently combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and thinly sliced red onion to distribute all flavors evenly.
- Add Dressing: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients without bruising the greens.
Notes
- To toast pecans evenly, stir them frequently in the skillet.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider using walnuts as an alternative to pecans.
- You can substitute balsamic vinaigrette with a lemon vinaigrette for a brighter taste.
- Make sure to add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
