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Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Fresh and crunchy Autumn Pear Salad with Mozzarella and Pecans features sweet and crisp autumn pears, creamy shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and lightly toasted pecans. This salad combines seasonal flavors and textures with mixed greens and a bright honey-apple cider vinegar dressing, making it an easy, vibrant fall dish perfect as a light meal, appetizer, or side.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 ripe but firm autumn pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), thinly sliced with skin on
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
  • 1/2 cup pecans, lightly toasted
  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or desired mix)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  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.
  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.
  3. Assemble the Greens and Cheese: In a large salad bowl, add the fresh mixed greens and scatter shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) over the top, ensuring even distribution for creamy bites throughout.
  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.
  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.

Notes

  • 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.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No cooking required
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad portion (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Autumn pear salad, mozzarella salad, pecan salad, fall salad, seasonal salad, easy salad recipe, gluten free salad

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Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/autumn-pear-salad-with-mozzarella-and-pecans/