Harvest Pear-Pecan Salad, Bright Thanksgiving Greens

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What kind of recipe is it?

The Harvest Pear-Pecan Salad is a delightful, seasonal dish that combines fresh, crisp greens with sweet pears, crunchy pecans, and a tangy dressing.

This salad is perfect for autumn gatherings or a light lunch, featuring a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will impress your guests.

Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a healthy choice for anyone looking to elevate their meal.

Ideal for salad lovers, health-conscious individuals, or those seeking a delicious way to celebrate the fall harvest.

Ingredients

Notes:

• Verify the salad greens are fresh and washed thoroughly before assembling the salad.
• Choose ripe pears for the best flavor; Bartlett or Bosc varieties work well.
• You can lightly toast the pecans for added flavor, if desired.

Cooking Steps

1. Begin with mise en place: wash and dry 6 cups of mixed salad greens, slice 2 medium-sized ripe pears, chop 1/2 cup of pecans (optional: toast them in a small skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant), crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese, thinly slice 1/4 of a medium red onion, and measure out the remaining ingredients (1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper).

2. For the dressing, in a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup (60 ml) of olive oil, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard until emulsified and slightly thickened.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. In a large salad bowl, combine the washed salad greens, sliced pears, chopped pecans, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries (1/4 cup), and thinly sliced red onion.

4. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients, starting with about half. Gently toss the salad using salad tongs or clean hands to guarantee all components are evenly coated, being careful not to bruise the greens, approximately 30 seconds.

5. Taste the salad and add more dressing if desired, then toss again gently.

Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.

6. Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the greens to absorb some of the dressing, during which the pears will slightly soften.

7. If serving immediately, plate individual portions or serve directly from the bowl.

Use salad tongs for presentation and ease of serving, making sure to include a balanced mix of all ingredients in each serving.

8. Serve the Harvest Pear-Pecan Salad immediately while the greens are fresh and crisp.

For best flavor and texture, avoid letting the salad sit too long after dressing.

Variations

• Mediterranean Flair: Replace pecans with toasted pine nuts (1/2 cup) and add 1/4 cup (60 ml) of sliced black olives along with one diced cucumber for a briny twist.
• Cranberry-Walnut Delight: Swap pecans for walnuts (1/2 cup) and add 1/2 cup (75 g) of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
• Vegan Harvest: Omit feta cheese and use avocado slices for creaminess; replace honey in the dressing with maple syrup (1 tablespoon) to maintain sweetness without animal products.
• Winter Citrus: Replace pears with diced oranges (2 medium-sized) and add 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and freshness perfect for winter salads.

Tips on plating and presentation

Have you ever wondered how to make your Harvest Pear-Pecan Salad look as delightful as it tastes?

Start with a clean, vibrant plate. Use a ring mold to stack the salad high for a tower effect.

Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for color. Drizzle your dressing artistically around the plate, and place a few pecans on top for that extra crunch.

Enjoy this visual feast!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

After perfecting the presentation of your Harvest Pear-Pecan Salad, it’s time to think about what other dishes can complement its flavors.

I love serving it alongside a savory roasted butternut squash, creamy goat cheese bruschetta, or herb-crusted turkey.

These pairings enhance the salad’s sweetness while adding depth to the meal, creating a balanced and festive Thanksgiving spread everyone will enjoy.

What drinks can I pair it with?

When choosing the perfect drink to accompany your Harvest Pear-Pecan Salad, consider three delightful options that enhance its flavors beautifully.

A crisp Chardonnay complements the salad’s lightness, while a revitalizing sparkling water with lemon adds a zesty touch.

For a cozy feel, I love pairing it with a spiced apple cider.

Each drink enhances the salad’s sweetness and nuttiness perfectly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Prepare the Salad a Day in Advance?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the salad a day in advance. I often do this to save time. Just mix the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful. Enjoy your meal!

What Is the Best Type of Pear for This Salad?

I think the best type of pear for this salad is a ripe Bartlett. Their sweetness and softness complement the other ingredients beautifully, adding a delightful texture and flavor that makes each bite irresistible.

How Can I Store Leftover Salad?

I store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for a couple of days. Just remember to add dressing only when I’m ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Is This Salad Gluten-Free?

Yes, this salad is gluten-free! I always check the ingredient labels for any hidden gluten sources. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten, and it still tastes delicious. Enjoy every bite!

Can I Use Nuts Other Than Pecans?

Absolutely, you can use different nuts! I’ve swapped pecans for walnuts or almonds in my salads before, and they’ve added a delightful crunch. Just choose what you enjoy most for a tasty twist.