A Refreshing Delight: Salad Greens with Pears, Fennel & Walnuts
This salad holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of summer picnics in my grandmother’s garden. The vibrant colors of the greens, the sweet juiciness of the pears, and the crunch of walnuts always brought a smile to my face. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.
What Makes It Special
There are several reasons why this salad stands out:
- Flavor Harmony: The combination of sweet pears, crisp fennel, and earthy walnuts creates a delightful balance of flavors.
- Textural Contrast: Each bite offers a mix of crunch from the walnuts and greens, and the tender sweetness of the pears.
- Seasonal Freshness: This salad is perfect for spring and summer, showcasing the best of what the season has to offer.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s a quick dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
- 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 1 small bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking
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In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced pear, and fennel.
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Add the toasted walnuts and feta cheese, if using.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
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Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness!
My Pro Tips
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For added flavor, try marinating the sliced pears in a bit of lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
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If you want a bit of sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
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Feel free to substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Perfect Pairings
This salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
- A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Crusty bread or a light soup for a complete lunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and toss them together just before serving to maintain the crispness.
Q: What if I don’t like fennel?
A: You can easily substitute fennel with thinly sliced celery or cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
The Heart of the Dish
This salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and the memories they evoke. Each bite transports me back to those sunny afternoons spent with family, laughter echoing in the air. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this refreshing salad and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and share your variations. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
Salad Greens with Pears, Fennel & Walnuts: A Light & Refreshing Dish
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced pear, and fennel.
- Add the toasted walnuts and feta cheese, if using.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness!
Nutrition Information
