Pear Gorgonzola and Candied Pecan Salad

This revitalizing salad features crunchy pears, creamy gorgonzola cheese, and caramelized pecans, enhanced by a zesty Dijon vinaigrette dressing. It complements any winter meal beautifully.

For those winter days when local farmers' markets are closed, having a fantastic green salad is essential. This one features your preferred mild greens alongside radicchio's slightly bitter and spicy kick. It's crowned with subtly under-ripened pears for a crispness that perfectly complements the delightful crunch of homemade candied pecans. A simple, homemade Dijon mustard dressing ties it all together, while dollops of creamy gorgonzola cheese add a finishing touch. This flavor contrast, reminiscent of yin and yang, is an irresistible craving, no matter the season.

Similar to my beloved ultimate Italian platter salad, I prefer serving this on a large plate or in a shallow dish to avoid tossing, ensuring every delightful, chunky bite remains visible and doesn't get lost at the bottom of a bowl.

What Does This Salad Contain?

This salad strikes a flawless harmony between sweetness and tanginess, making it a delightful accompaniment to various dishes such as creamy broccoli cheese soup, beloved pasta bolognese, or a straightforward lemon and rosemary roast chicken. You can even elevate it into a complete meal by adding shredded roast chicken on top.

Spring greens blend comprising butter lettuce and radicchio

Slightly under-ripened pears for a crisp texture, any preferred variety or mix

Creamy gorgonzola cheese (or any regular blue cheese alternative)

Homemade candied pecans from this recipe or a quality store brand

Dijon vinaigrette prepared with:

- Seasoned rice vinegar

- Finely diced shallots

- Dijon mustard

- Extra virgin olive oil

- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions for Crafting the Dijon Vinaigrette Dressing

Prepare this dressing in advance, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Before use, allow it to reach room temperature for optimal taste. This versatile dressing also complements cooked vegetables wonderfully or serves as a swift marinade for chicken.

Here's how to create it:

1. Choose your method: Either whisk the dressing in a bowl or shake it vigorously in a jar with a lid. Both techniques yield excellent results, although whisking slowly tends to produce a thicker, more emulsified dressing.

2. Start by adding the Dijon, minced shallots, and vinegar before introducing the oil. The combination of mustard and vinegar diminishes the sharpness of the shallots while maintaining that classic French bistro essence.

3. Mix the dressing: While continuously whisking (if using a bowl), gradually pour the olive oil into the mixture until it thickens and gains a rich consistency. Alternatively, simplify the process by combining all ingredients at once in a sealed glass jar. Shake vigorously to emulsify.

4. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your preferred taste by adding more of either seasoning.

Pick Your Blend

Opt for a combination of delicate greens. I've developed a penchant for the most tender leaves of buttery lettuce and locally sourced baby red leaf lettuces, often found in the produce section of my grocery store. Feel free to opt for any assortment of leafy greens you prefer for this salad.

Next, introduce a touch of radicchio. This Italian green lends a subtle bitterness that harmonizes with the sweetness of the salad's fruits and nuts while contributing a vibrant hue. If radicchio isn't to your liking, consider using chopped purple cabbage as an alternative.

 

Add the Sweet Crunch of Candied Pecans and Pears

Make Sweet Glazed Pecans On the stove, follow three easy steps. These quick candied nuts are infused with cinnamon and nutmeg for flavor. For added heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne, chili powder, or smoked paprika.

Select firm yet not overly firm pears for the salad. Any pear variety will suffice for this dish, as long as they're not excessively ripe and mushy. If the pears are too hard, place them on the countertop alongside bananas to ripen within approximately a day.

Pour over the Dressing and Introduce the Cheese

Creamy gorgonzola or a robust blue cheese contributes to the salad's tangy profile. Alternatively, consider using goat cheese, or even diced white cheddar for a flavorful substitute.

Dress the salad right before serving to maintain the integrity of the delicate lettuce. This timing ensures the best presentation and texture.