Roasted Pear and Blue Cheese Salad

Pear and blue cheese might seem like an odd combination for salad recipes, but trust us when we say that it's delicious! This blue cheese salad recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The sweetness of the pears pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the blue cheese, and the greens add a bit of crunch. Give this recipe a try and see for yourself!

What is so good about Pear Salad with blue cheese?

If you are looking for a salad recipe that is both flavorful and elegant, look no further than this Roasted Pear and Blue Cheese Salad. Pears are roasted until they are slightly softened and then combined with crisp greens, crumbly blue cheese, and a simple vinaigrette. The result is a salad that is sure to impress. To make this salad recipe, start by roasting the pears. I like to do this in a 400-degree oven for about 15 minutes, but you could also roast them on a grill or in a pan on the stove.

Once they are roasted, allow them to cool slightly before chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Next, add the greens to a large bowl or platter. I used a mix of baby spinach and arugula, but you could use whatever greens you like. Top the greens with the roasted pears and blue cheese, and then drizzle with the vinaigrette. Serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

What are the best pears to use?

There are a few different types of pears that would work well in this salad. For a more traditional flavor, you could use Bosc or Anjou pears. For a sweeter option, try using Bartlett or Comice pears. If you're looking for something with a bit more of a kick, you could use Asian pears. Whichever type of pear you choose, make sure it is ripe but still firm. You don't want the pear to be too soft or it will fall apart when you roast it.

What is so good about Blue Cheese?

Blue cheese is a type of cheese that has a strong, salty flavor and a slightly crumbly texture. It is made from cow's milk, sheep's milk, or goat's milk. The most popular blue cheeses include Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and Stilton. Some people love the sharp, tangy flavor of blue cheese, while others find it too strong. There are many ways to enjoy blue cheese. It can be used in salads, as a topping for burgers or steaks, in pasta dishes, or even melted on top of bread. This Roasted Pear and Blue Cheese Salad is a simple and elegant way to enjoy blue cheese.

How healthy are Pears?

Pears are a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and copper. They also contain antioxidants that may help protect against cancer and other diseases. Pears are a low-calorie food, with about 100 calories in a large pear. This makes them a great choice for people trying to lose weight or maintain their weight. Pears are also a good source of energy and can help you feel fuller for longer.

Health benefits aside, pears are just downright delicious. And when paired with blue cheese and a simple vinaigrette, they make for a show-stopping salad. This salad is perfect for a fall dinner party or holiday meal. The roasted pears are a good source of fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and may help to reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases. Pears also contain polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage. Polyphenols have been linked with a reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Blue cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are both important for bone health. It also contains probiotics, which are live bacteria that can help improve your gut health.

Ingredients

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 6

• 3 large firm pears, cored and cut into wedges
• ¼ c. extra virgin olive oil, divided
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 c. balsamic vinegar
• 6 c. fresh arugula, washed and dried
• 6 oz. blue cheese, crumbled

What can I serve with Pear Salad with blue cheese?

This dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of different foods. Try it with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. For a lighter meal, serve it with grilled fish or tofu. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, this salad pairs well with roasted vegetables or quinoa. No matter what you choose to serve it with, this salad is sure to please. Enjoy! Did you know that pears are a member of the rose family? Pears come in many different varieties, including Anjou, Bartlett, and Bosc. When choosing a pear for this salad, look for one that is firm but not too ripe.

Directions

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 375°F and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat® baking mat. 
2. Arrange pear slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet without overcrowding. Lightly brush the pear wedges with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and season with salt and black pepper, as desired. 
3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 15 minutes. Remove from oven and turn each pear. 
4. Return to the oven and continue roasting until the pears are evenly browned and fork tender, approximately 10-15 minutes. Remove pears from the oven and cool slightly. Set aside. 
5. While pears are roasting, add balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan set over medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and stir frequently until the liquid is reduced to ⅓ of its original volume. The liquid will be thick and syrupy when it is ready. Remove from heat and keep warm until ready to serve. 
6. Add arugula, roasted pear slices, and blue cheese to a large salad bowl. Add the remaining olive oil and toss to combine. 
7. Drizzle the warm balsamic glaze on top and serve immediately. Enjoy! 

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