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Pear Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Pecans

Pear Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Pecans is a fresh, elegant dish featuring juicy pears, tangy gorgonzola cheese, and crunchy candied pecans tossed in a light dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Dressing:
  • 5 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • ½ tsp Dijon mustard
  • 3 tsp lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp sugar
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Candied Pecans:
  • ⅓ cup pecans
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • Salad:
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 ripe pear thinly sliced
  • 3 oz Gorgonzola cheese crumbled

Method
 

  1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
  2. Candy the Pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle sugar into the pan and let it start to melt, then add pecans. Stir constantly until coated. Transfer to parchment paper to cool.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or platter, layer mixed greens. Arrange pear slices over the greens. Top with Gorgonzola and candied pecans.
  4. Finish & Serve: Drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving.

Notes

  • Slice pears just before serving to avoid browning.
  • Pecans can be made 2–3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container.
  • For toddlers: serve pear slices and candied pecans separately, omitting Gorgonzola if needed.
  • Substitutions: Blue cheese, goat cheese, or walnuts work well.