Easy Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Fresh and crunchy Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans features sweet pears, creamy cheese, and toasted nuts for a perfect fall dish. This delightful salad combines seasonal flavors and textures that create a harmonious taste experience, making it an easy, vibrant addition to your autumn table or a refreshing meal anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Freshness: The juicy pear brings natural sweetness that highlights the best of fall produce.
• Creamy Texture: Soft mozzarella balances the crunch of pecans and crisp greens perfectly.
• Quick and Simple: Minimal ingredients combine effortlessly for a flavorful salad in minutes.
• Versatile Dish: This salad works as a light meal, appetizer, or a fancy side for gatherings.
• Nutty Crunch: Toasted pecans add depth, texture, and a toasty aroma that elevates every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients makes this Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans a breeze to prepare. Each element contributes to a balance of sweet, creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors that make this salad truly shine.

• Pears: Choose ripe but firm autumn pears for a sweet and crisp bite.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Adds creamy richness that complements the fresh fruit perfectly.
• Pecans: Lightly toasted to bring out their warm, nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
• Mixed greens: A base of fresh greens such as arugula or baby spinach adds vibrant color and lightness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Provides a bright and subtle tang to lift the dressing.
• Olive oil: Used in the dressing to add smoothness and a rich mouthfeel.
• Honey or maple syrup: Introduces a touch of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pears.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors just right.

Variations for Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

This salad is wonderfully customizable, so feel free to tweak it based on what you love or what you have in your pantry. Adjust the mix-ins and dressings easily to suit various tastes or dietary preferences.

• Swap Pecans for Walnuts: Use toasted walnuts for a slightly different nutty flavor and crunch.
• Try Different Cheeses: Replace mozzarella with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• Add Fruits: Include dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for bursts of tart sweetness and vibrant color.
• Leafy Base Options: Use kale or romaine for a heartier texture and more robust greens flavor.
• Dress It Differently: Experiment with balsamic vinegar or a lemon-honey vinaigrette instead of apple cider vinegar.

How to Make Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

Wash and slice the pears thinly, keeping the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Aim for uniform slices so every bite tastes balanced between pear and other ingredients.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pecans, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes until aromatic and lightly browned. Let them cool before adding to the salad to preserve crunch.

Step 3: Assemble the Greens and Cheese

In a large salad bowl, add the fresh mixed greens and scatter shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, ensuring even distribution for creamy bites throughout.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. This dressing brings a bright, slightly sweet flavor that ties the salad together seamlessly.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Gently toss the pears, toasted pecans, and dressing with the greens and cheese. Mix just enough to coat without bruising the pears or wilting the greens.

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

• Pick the Right Pears: Use varieties like Bosc or Anjou that hold their shape and offer perfect sweetness.
• Toast Nuts Gently: Watch pecans closely while toasting to avoid burning and bitterness.
• Dress Just Before Serving: This keeps the greens crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) melts slightly, adding creamy bursts of flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the amount of honey in the dressing to balance the natural pear sweetness.

How to Serve Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra toasted pecans or add a few fresh herbs like basil or mint leaves right before serving for a punch of fresh aroma and enhanced presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with warm whole grain bread, roasted root vegetables, or a light soup to round out a main meal on chilly days.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad layered in clear glass bowls to showcase its colors or arrange pear slices in a fan shape on top for an elegant touch at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add dressing fresh before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Freezing

Because of the fresh ingredients, this salad is not suitable for freezing, as the pears and greens can lose their texture and flavor when thawed.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; reheating can wilt the greens and alter the fresh texture of the pears and cheese.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios can be great substitutes and add their own unique crunch and flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate until ready to serve so the greens stay fresh and crisp.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

Grape juice or lemon juice are great alternatives that will keep the dressing bright and flavorful.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, smoked turkey strips, or even chickpeas pair well for a more filling meal.

How do I prevent pears from browning?

Sprinkle them lightly with lemon juice or toss them gently in the dressing quickly to reduce oxidation and keep the slices looking fresh.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for an easy, elegant dish or a seasonal boost to your meals, this Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans fits the bill beautifully. Its bright flavors and inviting textures make it a standout on any table, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite fall recipe you return to again and again.

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