There’s something undeniably refreshing about a salad that captures the essence of fall, and my Pear & Walnut Salad with Apple Pie Spice does just that. As I tossed the vibrant greens and fragrant ingredients together, the warm aroma of spices rose up—a delightful reminder of cozy autumn days. The sweetness of ripe Bartlett pears perfectly balances with the crunchy walnuts, making it a salad that’s not just a side dish but a standout feature on any table.
On busy weekdays when time is short, this quick, nutritious salad comes to the rescue. In just 15 minutes, I can whip up a delicious meal that’s high in fiber and bursting with flavor. It’s flexible too; you can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or paired with grilled chicken for dinner, this Pear & Walnut Salad is sure to tantalize the taste buds and brighten up any meal. Let’s get started!
Why is this Pear & Walnut Salad a must-try?
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days!
Nutritious Goodness: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors, it’s a wholesome choice.
Unique Flavor Fusion: The warmth of apple pie spice beautifully complements the sweetness of the pears.
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Easily customize using your favorite nuts, greens, or cheeses.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family meal or a gathering, this salad will impress everyone!
Pear & Walnut Salad Ingredients
Here’s what you need for this delightful salad.
For the Salad
- Walnuts – Provide healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. Note: Toasting enhances their flavor.
- Bartlett Pear – Contributes sweetness and juiciness, crucial for the salad’s freshness. Substitution: Any ripe pear variety works well.
- Celery Stalks – Adds crisp texture and a subtle earthiness. Chop finely for even distribution.
- Bulb Fennel – Offers a unique anise flavor and crunch. Use the fronds for garnish if desired.
- Scallion – Adds a mild onion flavor for depth. Can be omitted if preferred.
- Arugula – Gives a peppery bite and rich color to the dish. Substitute with spinach for a milder taste.
For the Dressing
- Olive Oil – Introduces healthy fats and helps emulsify the dressing. Use extra virgin olive oil for better taste.
- Lemon Juice – Offers acidity to balance richness. Fresh lemon juice is recommended for best flavor.
- Apple Pie Spice – Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness. Substitution: Cinnamon can be used if apple pie spice is unavailable.
- Salt and Pepper – Enhances overall flavor. Adjust to taste.
How to Make Pear & Walnut Salad
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple pie spice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This will create a deliciously fragrant dressing to enhance your salad.
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Slice Ingredients: Thinly slice the celery, bulb fennel, scallions, and Bartlett pear. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout your salad.
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Combine Salad: In a large bowl, add a generous handful of arugula, the toasted walnuts, sliced pears, celery, fennel, and scallions. Mix them gently to maintain the integrity of the ingredients and showcase their colors.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad blend and toss gently. Ensure everything is well coated, then serve immediately for the freshest taste and crunch.
Optional: Garnish with extra walnut pieces or fennel fronds for an attractive presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pear & Walnut Salad
Fridge: Store your Pear & Walnut Salad in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 1 day. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crispness.
Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the salad soon after making it, keep it at room temperature for no more than 1 hour to ensure freshness.
Freezer: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate textures of the ingredients. Avoid freezing to maintain the quality.
Reheating: Since this dish is served cold, no reheating is necessary. Simply prepare and enjoy your Pear & Walnut Salad chilled!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Pear & Walnut Salad in advance is a fantastic way to save time on hectic days! You can slice the pears, celery, fennel, and scallions up to 24 hours ahead. To maintain their freshness, store the cut vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and drizzle a little lemon juice over the pear slices to prevent browning. The walnuts can also be toasted in advance and kept at room temperature. When you’re ready to enjoy the salad, simply combine the prepped ingredients with arugula and the dressing you’ve made ahead (which can be refrigerated for up to 3 days). Toss gently, and you’ll have a vibrant, delicious dish ready in no time!
Expert Tips for Pear & Walnut Salad
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Toast Walnuts: Always toast walnuts in a dry skillet until fragrant. This enhances their flavor but watch closely to avoid burning.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh produce for the best flavor and texture in your Pear & Walnut Salad. Wilted greens or bruised fruit can dull the dish.
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Select Ripe Pears: Choose ripe but firm Bartlett pears. They should hold their shape in the salad while providing sweetness without becoming mushy.
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Dress Just Before Serving: For ultimate freshness, dress the salad just before you’re ready to enjoy it. This prevents wilting and keeps each ingredient crisp.
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Customize as You Like: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preference. Different nuts or greens can elevate your Pear & Walnut Salad, making it uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Pear & Walnut Salad?
This vibrant salad is the star of any meal, but pairing it just right can elevate your dining experience.
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Grilled Chicken: The savory depth of grilled chicken complements the salad’s sweetness, making for a satisfying and balanced dish. The smoky flavor adds an extra layer that enhances each bite of the salad.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf brings an earthy richness and additional texture, complementing the crunchy walnuts beautifully. This combination is excellent for a filling yet healthy meal.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness and creaminess of roasted sweet potatoes harmonize with the lightness of the salad. Their comforting warmth creates a delightful contrast to the refreshing ingredients.
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Toasted Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread or a soft baguette to soak up any extra dressing. This simple pairing provides a satisfying and rustic touch to your meal.
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White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a crispness that cuts through the richness of the walnuts, enhancing the overall dining experience. This refreshing drink accentuates the salad’s bright flavors.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet is a perfect sweet conclusion, mirroring the freshness of the pears and leaving a pleasant, clean taste. Choose flavors like lemon or raspberry for a tangy balance.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a sweet finish that adds creamy texture while staying healthy. This combination complements the salad’s vibrant flavors and makes for a delightful end to your meal.
Pear & Walnut Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this salad to suit your taste!
- Nut Swap: Replace walnuts with pecans or slivered almonds for a delightful twist in flavor and texture.
- Creamy Addition: Crumble feta or goat cheese on top for a creamy, tangy element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pears.
- Sweet Boost: Toss in sliced dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds to add pops of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs such as basil or mint can brighten the salad even more, bringing a refreshing element to each bite.
- Citrus Zing: Add orange or grapefruit segments for a burst of juicy freshness that complements the pears perfectly.
- Grainy Texture: Incorporate cooked quinoa or farro for added heartiness and a satisfying chewiness.
- Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or thin slices of jalapeño can bring a surprising heat that enhances the overall flavor.
- Vegan Version: Replace cheese with avocado slices for creaminess while keeping the salad plant-based and wholesome.
Each variation allows you to explore new flavors, ensuring the Pear & Walnut Salad remains a beloved favorite, no matter the twist!
Pear & Walnut Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pears for the Pear & Walnut Salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for Bartlett pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure when ripe. They should be firm but not hard, with no dark spots or bruises. Avoid overripe pears that feel mushy, as they may not hold up well in the salad.
What’s the best way to store leftover Pear & Walnut Salad?
I recommend storing your salad in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will remain fresh for up to 1 day. Make sure to dress it just before serving to keep the greens crisp and prevent wilting. If you have undressed salad leftover, it can last a bit longer!
Can I freeze Pear & Walnut Salad?
Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well. The delicate textures of the fresh ingredients don’t hold up to freezing, which can lead to a soggy salad when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and crunch!
What can I do if my walnuts are stale?
Very! If you have stale walnuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant. This process revives their flavor and crunch, making them a delightful addition to your Pear & Walnut Salad!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Pear & Walnut Salad?
Yes, definitely! This salad is vegetarian and high in fiber, which is great for many diets. However, if someone has a nut allergy, you can substitute walnuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Just ensure all ingredients fit your dietary needs.
Pear & Walnut Salad: A Crunchy, Cozy Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple pie spice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Thinly slice the celery, bulb fennel, scallions, and Bartlett pear.
- In a large bowl, add a generous handful of arugula, the toasted walnuts, sliced pears, celery, fennel, and scallions.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad blend and toss gently.