Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts

Name: Pear and Gorgonzola Salad with Candied Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 2 ripe pears, sliced; 100g Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled; 1 cup candied walnuts; 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I first tried a pear and Gorgonzola salad, I was blown away by the combination of flavors. The sweetness of the pears pairs beautifully with the tangy, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and the candied walnuts add a delightful crunch. This salad is perfect for a refreshing lunch or as a side dish for dinner. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it feels sophisticated enough for a special occasion. I often serve it with a light vinaigrette, which highlights all the ingredients beautifully.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:52:15.218Z

I remember the first time I put this salad together, I was looking for a dish that balanced sweetness and savory depth. The recipe turned out to be surprisingly simple, yet the flavors were astounding. Using ripe pears is crucial; it makes all the difference in creating that luscious texture against the sharpness of the Gorgonzola.

After several attempts, I found that toasting the walnuts with sugar before adding them gives a spectacular caramel finish that is the star of the dish. This tiny step elevates the whole salad, making it perfect for entertaining guests or a quiet night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The harmonious blend of sweet pears and tangy Gorgonzola.
Crunchy, caramelized walnuts provide an irresistible texture.
Quick to prepare, yet stunning enough for entertaining.

      

Choosing the Right Pears

When selecting pears for this salad, aim for ripe varieties like Bartlett or Anjou. They provide the perfect balance of sweetness and juiciness. A ripe pear should yield slightly when pressed but not feel mushy. If your pears are unripe, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with a banana for a day or two. This ethylene-producing fruit helps to soften them faster, ensuring the sweetest flavor for your salad.

For an added layer of taste, consider poaching your pears in a mixture of white wine and sugar. This technique infuses them with a subtle depth of flavor that pairs well with the Gorgonzola. Simply slice the pears and simmer them in a combination of one cup of white wine and a couple of tablespoons of sugar until they are tender but still hold their shape, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.

Mastering the Candied Walnuts

The candied walnuts are a crucial element of this salad, providing a sweet crunch that complements the creamy Gorgonzola and juicy pears. It’s essential to stir continuously while melting the sugar to ensure it doesn’t burn. Once the sugar becomes a golden caramel color, quickly remove the walnuts from the heat. They should be glossy and evenly coated. Allowing them to cool on parchment paper helps prevent them from sticking together.

If you prefer a different nut, pecans can be substituted for the walnuts while delivering a similar flavor profile. Toast them lightly in the skillet before adding the sugar to enhance their taste, but be careful not to over-toast them to avoid bitterness. Keeping an eye on their color will help achieve the right balance of nutty flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious salad that everyone will enjoy.

Salad Ingredients

4 cups mixed greens
2 ripe pears, sliced
100g Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
1 cup candied walnuts
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Make sure to have all the ingredients fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful salad.

Prepare the Candied Walnuts

In a small skillet over medium heat, combine the walnuts and sugar. Stir frequently until the sugar melts and coats the walnuts. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Assemble Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Add the cooled candied walnuts.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Your salad is ready to impress! Enjoy every bite.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds. They add a nice tartness that complements the other ingredients well.

Serving Suggestions

This Pear and Gorgonzola Salad can shine on its own but can be elevated by serving it alongside grilled chicken or steak for a more filling meal. The combination of flavors adds an aromatic dimension that complements the savory aspects of proteins. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover vinaigrette for a harmonious meal experience.

For a more pronounced flavor contrast, consider adding thinly sliced red onions or a handful of arugula to the salad for a peppery bite. You can also drizzle a touch of honey over the salad before serving to enhance the sweetness of the pears and walnuts.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time, you can prepare the candied walnuts and the vinaigrette ahead of time. Store the walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The balsamic vinaigrette can be made and refrigerated for up to a week as well. Just be sure to give it a good shake before drizzling the fresh salad ingredients.

Chop the pear and mix it with a little lemon juice if you're preparing the salad a few hours in advance. This will prevent the fruit from browning while maintaining its fresh appearance. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the Gorgonzola intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.

→ What can I substitute for Gorgonzola?

If you don't have Gorgonzola, you can use feta cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The greens may wilt over time.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be excellent additions for a more filling meal.