Delightful Spinach Pear Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

There’s something magical about a Spinach Pear Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette that makes it a delightful addition to any meal. Imagine crisp spinach leaves, sweet juicy pears, and the tangy kick of balsamic dressing dancing together on your plate. This salad isn’t just a side; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

Whenever I whip up this salad, I am transported back to sunny picnics with friends, where laughter mingles with the scent of fresh ingredients. Whether it’s a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party, this salad is like the life of the party—bringing everyone together for a delicious bite.

I remember the first time I served this salad at my family’s holiday gathering; everyone raved about it and asked for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Spinach: Look for bright green leaves without wilting for optimal freshness.

• Ripe Pears: Choose pears that give slightly when pressed; they add natural sweetness.

• Walnuts: Lightly toasted walnuts enhance flavor and add satisfying crunch.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and a salty kick that complements the pears beautifully.

For the Dressing:

• Balsamic Vinegar: A good quality balsamic vinegar enhances the richness of the vinaigrette.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor that pairs perfectly with balsamic vinegar.

• Honey: A touch of honey balances acidity and adds an irresistible sweetness.

• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these simple spices elevate all the flavors in your salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spinach Pear Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

Start by washing the spinach: Rinse freshly picked spinach leaves under cool water until clean and dry them using a salad spinner or paper towels.

Prepare the pears: Slice ripe pears into thin wedges, ensuring you remove any seeds while keeping their beautiful shape intact.

Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for about 5 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Whisk together dressing: In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until emulsified into a creamy dressing.

Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, pear slices, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette just before serving.

Serve immediately: Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly in dressing while enjoying the vibrant colors and aromas wafting around you.

Now you’re ready to impress your family or friends with this beautiful Spinach Pear Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the vinaigrette first; let the flavors meld while you assemble the salad.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or add crumbled feta for a creamier texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Avoid reheating; enjoy cold!

A friend once told me this salad was her secret weapon for impressing guests at dinner parties—who knew greens could wield such power?

FAQ

What type of pears work best in Spinach Pear Salad?

Bartlett or Anjou pears offer the best balance of sweetness and texture.

Can I make the vinaigrette ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Just keep dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

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Spinach Pear Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette

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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spinach Pear Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette. This refreshing salad features crispy spinach, sweet ripe pears, and crunchy toasted walnuts, all brought together by a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a light main dish or an elegant side, this recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Treat your taste buds and impress your guests with this delightful salad that beautifully balances sweetness and tang.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Total Time: 13 minute
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 2 ripe pears, sliced
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse spinach leaves under cool water and dry using a salad spinner.
2. Slice pears into thin wedges, removing seeds.
3. Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
5. In a large bowl, combine spinach, pear slices, toasted walnuts, and feta cheese.
6. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette just before serving and toss gently to coat.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (150g)
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added creaminess, consider adding sliced avocado. Substitute walnuts with pecans for a different flavor profile. Store leftovers in an airtight container but keep dressing separate until serving.