If you’re looking for a refreshing and delightful dish to brighten your table, this Arugula Pear Salad is just the ticket! With the perfect balance of peppery arugula, sweet pears, and crunchy candied walnuts, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, this recipe makes any meal feel special. Plus, it comes together in a snap—so you can spend more time enjoying your company and less time in the kitchen!

What makes this salad even better is its versatility. You can serve it as a side or make it the star of your meal. It’s nutritious, delicious, and perfect for meal prep too. My family loves this dish so much that we often find ourselves making it several nights in a row!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: In just 5 minutes, you can whip up this gorgeous salad that tastes like it took hours!
Family-friendly flavors: The combination of sweet and savory ingredients appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the vinaigrette ahead of time and toss the salad just before serving for maximum freshness.
Versatile dish: Perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side for dinner; it fits any occasion seamlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Arugula Pear Salad! These items are not only easy to find but also combine beautifully to create a delicious dish everyone will love.

For the Vinaigrette

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp coarse grained dijon mustard
1 tbsp crushed garlic (about 3 large garlic cloves)
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Salad

1 small red onion (cut into thin strips, about 1/2-1 cup)
1/2 cup dried sweetened cranberries
7 oz bag arugula leaves
1/2 cup shaved parmesan
1 large bosc pear (thinly sliced)
1 cup candied walnuts (or maple glazed pecans)

Variations

One of the best things about this Arugula Pear Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for.

Swap out the nuts: If walnuts aren’t your favorite, try using toasted pecans or slivered almonds for a different crunch.
Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this salad heartier and perfect as a main dish.
Change up the cheese: Instead of parmesan, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Fresh fruit options: Add slices of ripe figs or pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color.

How to Make Arugula Pear Salad

Step 1: Whisk Together the Vinaigrette

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This dressing forms the flavorful base for our salad. Adding coarse-grained dijon mustard along with crushed garlic enhances its depth. Don’t forget to season with sea salt and black pepper—these small touches really elevate every bite!

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Once your vinaigrette is ready, it’s time to add all those lovely salad ingredients. Toss in the thinly sliced red onion, dried cranberries, arugula leaves, shaved parmesan, bosc pear slices, and candied walnuts. Gently toss everything together so that each piece gets coated with that delicious dressing. Remember, being gentle helps preserve the delicate nature of arugula while ensuring all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

And there you have it! Your Arugula Pear Salad is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it right away for maximum freshness or store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge—if there are any leftovers!

Pro Tips for Making Arugula Pear Salad

Creating the perfect Arugula Pear Salad is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your salad game:

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh arugula, ripe pears, and quality olive oil make all the difference in flavor and texture. Choosing top-notch ingredients ensures a vibrant and delicious salad.
Customize your nuts: While candied walnuts add a delightful crunch, feel free to swap in maple-glazed pecans or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. This way, you can cater to different dietary preferences while still keeping that satisfying crunch.
Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or edamame. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide an excellent source of protein.
Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the vinaigrette and slice the ingredients ahead of time. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the arugula crisp and fresh.
Experiment with seasonings: Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs and spices. A pinch of crushed red pepper or fresh mint can add an exciting twist to your salad.

How to Serve Arugula Pear Salad

Serving your Arugula Pear Salad beautifully can really impress your family and guests! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh mint or basil can add a pop of color and freshness. They also complement the sweetness of the pears beautifully.
Extra cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese adds creaminess that balances out the salad’s other flavors.
Microgreens: These tiny greens not only look stunning but also offer an extra layer of flavor. Their delicate taste pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa with vegetables makes for a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with the salad’s flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender add a smoky contrast.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the pear and balances out the salad’s acidity.
Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of hearty lentil soup is perfect for cooler evenings and provides a satisfying protein boost alongside your fresh salad.

Enjoy crafting your Arugula Pear Salad experience! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress at any meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Arugula Pear Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or quick lunches. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Consume within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh ingredients.
However, you can freeze the candied walnuts or maple glazed pecans separately for later use.

Reheating

If you have leftovers, simply take out the portion you want and allow it to come to room temperature.
Avoid reheating in a microwave as it can wilt the arugula; instead, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making an Arugula Pear Salad!

Can I use different nuts in my Arugula Pear Salad?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for candied walnuts or maple glazed pecans, feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts.

How long can I store my Arugula Pear Salad?

You can store leftover Arugula Pear Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the shaved parmesan or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative for a delicious vegan version of this Arugula Pear Salad.

What other ingredients can I add to my Arugula Pear Salad?

Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like goat cheese, feta, or even avocado. Fresh herbs like basil or mint could also enhance the flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Arugula Pear Salad is truly special—it brings together vibrant flavors and textures that make any meal feel like a celebration. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as my family does. It’s perfect for sharing and sure to impress your loved ones. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!