This delightful Roasted Pear & Blue Cheese Fall Salad brings together the sweet caramelization of roasted pears, the tangy punch of blue cheese, and the satisfying crunch of candied pecans—all layered on a bed of peppery arugula and tied together with a delicate maple-balsamic vinaigrette. It’s an elegant and colorful addition to any fall menu, rich in texture, visual appeal, and seasonal flavor.
Why You’ll Fall for This Salad
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Stunning presentation: Deep jewel tones and elegant plating bring festive flair to any table.
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Balanced flavor: Sweet, tangy, crunchy, and creamy notes play harmoniously in every forkful.
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Simple prep, big impact: Easy to assemble, perfect for busy holiday cooking.
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Perfect for seasonal gatherings: A beautiful side for Thanksgiving, cozy dinners, or fall entertaining.
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Nutritious indulgence: Loaded with fiber, healthy fats, protein, and fresh produce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Salad Components
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3 firm pears (Bosc or Anjou), cored and quartered
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5 cups baby arugula or mixed baby greens
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½ cup blue cheese, crumbled (cow, goat, or vegan alternative)
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½ to ¾ cup pecans, roughly chopped (see how to candy below)
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Optional add-ins: dried cranberries, thinly sliced red onion, pomegranate arils, or orange segments
Candied Pecans (Optional but Recommended)
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½ cup pecan halves or pieces
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1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
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Pinch of salt
Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette
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¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
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1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
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½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Pears
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pear wedges with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired. Place on a lined baking sheet and roast until tender and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes. Let cool slightly.
2. Candy the Pecans (Optional)
In a dry pan over medium heat, warm the pecans with maple syrup or honey and a pinch of salt. Stir until glossy and fragrant (3–4 minutes), then transfer to parchment to cool and become crisp.
3. Whisk the Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette
Combine balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard in a bowl or jar. Whisk in olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting sweetness or acidity as needed.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a salad bowl, layer the greens, roasted pear wedges, crumbled blue cheese, and candied pecans. Optionally sprinkle in any dried fruit or citrus accents. Drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving and toss gently.
Tips & Seasonal Customizations
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Use fresh, firm pears to ensure they hold their shape when roasted.
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Prevent wilting by adding the dressing just before serving or serve in individual portions.
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Change the nut: Swap pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts to vary texture.
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Make it vegan: Use a plant-based cheese and syrup, and ensure all ingredients align with dietary needs.
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Add color & texture: Try pomegranate seeds, sliced radish, or microgreens for vibrant notes.
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Make ahead: Roast pears and prep dressing early; assemble at serving time for peak freshness.
Serving Suggestions
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Elegantly paired with roasted poultry or grilled squash.
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Perfect next to grain-based salads or hearty autumn soups.
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Pack it into meal-prep containers—with dressing separately—for flavorful ready-to-go lunches.
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Use as a classy starter or palate cleanser at dinner parties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh blue cheese or a vegan alternative?
Yes—choose whichever suits your dietary preferences or palate.
How long can this salad stay fresh?
Without dressing, components hold for 2–3 days; combine just before eating.
Can I replace arugula with another green?
Yes! Try spinach or mixed greens for milder flavors.
Is it gluten-free?
Absolutely—just verify any store-bought dressings or cheese additions are gluten-free.
Can I caramelize the pears differently?
Certainly! Try grilling or sautéing in a pan with a pat of butter (or butter substitute) and a drizzle of syrup before adding to salad.
Nutritional Highlights
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Pears: Rich in fiber and vitamins C & K
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Blue cheese: Adds calcium and savory depth
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Pecans: Offer omega-3, healthy fats, and protein
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Arugula: High in antioxidants with a peppery punch
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Dressing: Light, flavorful, low added sugar—just maple sweetness for balance
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Pear & Blue Cheese Fall Salad brings together elegance, simplicity, and seasonal flavor all in one beautiful bowl. Whether gracing your holiday spread or serving up a cozy dinner at home, this dish delivers irresistible taste, texture, and charm. Let me know if you’d like formatted recipe cards, nutrition labels, or styled images for sharing—I’d love to help make it shine!
