Pear & Goat Cheese Salad with Walnuts and Arugula

This Pear & Goat Cheese Salad with Walnuts and Arugula is the definition of simple elegance. The peppery bite of arugula pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese, the sweetness of juicy pears, and the crunch of toasted walnuts. Finished with a honey-balsamic dressing, it’s a perfectly balanced salad that tastes as good as it looks.

Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing starter, a light lunch, or a side for your holiday table, this salad brings sophistication and flavor with minimal effort. It’s crisp, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet — a timeless combination that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Pear & Goat Cheese Salad

🍐 Sweet & Savory Balance: Juicy pears meet tangy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts.
🥗 Quick & Elegant: Ready in just 10 minutes — perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
🌿 Fresh & Seasonal: A beautiful way to enjoy fall flavors in a light, healthy dish.
💛 Customizable: Swap pears for apples or add proteins like chicken or prosciutto.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cups fresh arugula (or mixed greens)
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• ½ cup crumbled goat cheese
• ⅓ cup walnuts, toasted
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for toasting nuts, optional)

For the Honey-Balsamic Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Pear & Goat Cheese Salad with Walnuts and Arugula

Step 1 – Toast the Walnuts:
In a small skillet, lightly toast the walnuts over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.

Step 2 – Make the Dressing:
Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3 – Assemble the Salad:
Place the arugula in a large salad bowl. Top with sliced pears, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.

Step 4 – Dress & Toss:
Drizzle the honey-balsamic dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Salad

🍯 Use ripe but firm pears: They should be sweet and slightly crisp, not mushy.
🔥 Toast the walnuts: It deepens their flavor and adds crunch.
🧀 Goat cheese alternatives: Feta or blue cheese also pair beautifully.
🥬 Make it heartier: Add grilled chicken, roasted beets, or quinoa.

What to Serve With This Salad

• Grilled chicken or salmon for a light, balanced meal.
• Crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side.
• A glass of chardonnay or sparkling cider for a perfect pairing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the components ahead, but add the dressing and pears right before serving to keep it fresh.

What if I don’t like arugula?
Spinach, mixed greens, or kale work perfectly as substitutes.

Can I use another nut?
Yes! Pecans or almonds also complement the sweet-salty flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

This Pear & Goat Cheese Salad with Walnuts and Arugula is a fresh, flavorful masterpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its mix of creamy, crisp, and crunchy textures, it’s a salad that feels indulgent yet light — perfect for any fall or holiday table. 🍐🥗💛