Go Back
+ servings
Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad: Summer Bliss in a Bowl

Experience the vibrant flavors of Barefoot Contessa Pear and Blue Cheese Salad, a refreshing summer dish featuring sweet pears and tangy blue cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4-5 cups Mixed Greens Substitution: Arugula, spinach, or mesclun mix can be used.
  • 2 medium Ripe Pears Use firm but ripe pears; Bosc and Anjou varieties are recommended.
  • 1 cup Crumbled Blue Cheese Substitution: Goat cheese can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Toasted Walnuts/Pecans Tip: Toasting nuts enhances flavor; sunflower seeds can act as a nut-free alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Can be omitted for a less sweet flavor.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed juice is preferred for optimal taste.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Can use avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Other mustards may work but will alter flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Substitution: Maple syrup can be used for a vegan version.
  • to taste Salt Enhances flavor.
  • to taste Black Pepper Enhances flavor.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Salad Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until cohesive.
  2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Whisk until thickened.
  3. Place a generous layer of mixed greens in a salad bowl.
  4. Slice the ripe pears into thin wedges and arrange over the mixed greens.
  5. Sprinkle blue cheese and toasted walnuts or pecans over the salad. Add dried cranberries if desired.
  6. Drizzle the vinaigrette evenly over the salad before serving.
  7. Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Dress your salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp. Store undressed salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!