Description
Pear Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese, Pecans, and Honey-Lemon Dressing is a quick, healthy, and elegant dish. This versatile salad combines sweet pears, creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and a tangy homemade dressing, making it perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 large pears, cored and sliced lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ΒΌ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 5 oz baby spinach
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted and chopped
- 5 oz goat cheese (e.g., Humboldt Fog or any preferred variety)
Instructions
- Cook the Pears:
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced pears and cook for 3 minutes on each side until soft and pliable.
- Remove skillet from heat and stir in honey, lemon juice, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pears.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Place baby spinach in individual bowls or a large serving bowl.
- Top with cooked pears, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped toasted pecans.
- Drizzle the honey-lemon dressing (juices from the skillet) over the salad before serving.
Notes
- Pear Selection: Use firm varieties like Bartlett, Bosc, Anjou, or Comice to maintain shape when cooked.
- Nuts: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor; add just before serving for crunchiness.
- Make Ahead: Cook pears or prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in airtight containers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Skillet, Assembly
- Cuisine: American
